Katsina Government: Bandits Demand Educational and Health Facilities in Exchange for Peace

Katsina Government: Bandits Demand Educational and Health Facilities in Exchange for Peace

The Katsina State Government has revealed that armed bandits operating in parts of the state have demanded the construction of schools and hospitals as part of conditions for peace negotiations.

Speaking to journalists, state officials explained that during dialogue sessions, some of the bandit groups insisted that improved access to education, healthcare, and other social amenities in their communities would reduce the cycle of violence and marginalisation that fuels insecurity.

According to the government, the unusual demand highlights both the depth of infrastructural gaps in rural areas and the complexity of addressing banditry beyond military action. While authorities have welcomed the call for social development, they stressed that peace cannot be secured unless bandits first renounce violence, release abductees, and commit to disarmament.

Security analysts have noted that the demand underscores how decades of neglect in education and healthcare have contributed to rising insecurity in northern Nigeria. They argue that investments in human capital and basic services may provide long-term solutions, but warn against conceding too much leverage to armed groups.

The Katsina State Government affirmed that it is working with federal authorities, security agencies, and local communities to restore peace while expanding development programmes to underserved areas.