The recent peace agreement celebrated by the Kaduna State Government, under Governor Uba Sani, has been overshadowed by a fresh wave of kidnappings.
Armed bandits have abducted over 20 villagers in Kajuru Local Government, casting doubt on the effectiveness of the deal.
A local resident confirmed that armed bandits attacked Gurgu village on Sunday, kidnapping several individuals, including the traditional ruler, Halidu Galamida, and his wife, Martha Galadima.
“About 25 people were kidnapped, including my relation, the village head, his wife, and 23 others,” the resident said.
“Seven people were also injured during the attack.”
Most of the kidnapped victims were mourners, according to the source.
This incident highlights the ongoing insecurity in the region, despite the government’s peace deal.
In a separate incident, armed bandits attacked Iduh village in Kauru Local Government Area on Monday, killing one person and abducting several others.
Meanwhile, bandits are still holding hostages abducted from Alheri Baptist Church in Gyiya, Chikun Local Government Area, two weeks after the kidnapping.
These kidnappings have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the peace agreement, with critics, including columnist Dele Sobowale, questioning its impact.
In response, the government has been accused of deploying “hired goons” to attack Sobowale’s views in the media.
In November 2024, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State pardoned the first set of ‘repentant’ terrorists, who had been terrorising the region, leading to the closure of the cattle market in Birnin Gwari for about 10 years.
The governor, speaking at an event, reaffirmed his commitment to fairness and justice.
“I will be fair to everyone, be they farmers, herders and traders, in order to achieve lasting peace and development,” he said.
Mr Sani highlighted that several senior bandit leaders had embraced peace through extensive dialogue and meetings.
“Through numerous meetings and extensive discussions, we have built bridges of trust. Several senior bandit leaders had laid their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers,” he added.
According to him, the ‘repentant’ bandits are now part of a rehabilitation programme developed by his government in collaboration with the federal government.
“This programme adheres to international standards of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration, ensuring that these individuals can return to society as productive citizens,” he stated
The governor warned that while his government welcomed those seeking peace, it would act decisively against any continued violence.
