A peace meeting in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State has stirred controversy after a wanted bandit kingpin, Ado Aleru, reportedly took part in the talks.
According to counter-insurgency analyst Zagazola Makama, Aleru not only attended the meeting but addressed stakeholders, urging peaceful coexistence between Fulani herders and other residents.
“At the meeting, Aleru outlined measures to foster peaceful coexistence between Fulani herders and other members of the community,” Makama said.
Aleru’s presence comes despite ongoing efforts by security agencies to arrest him. He is believed to be responsible for a series of deadly attacks in Katsina and neighboring states.
Makama noted that the meeting reflects “a growing push for dialogue alongside continued operations by the security forces in addressing insecurity in Katsina.”
The participation of a wanted suspect in peace talks reveals the difficult realities confronting both communities and security personnel in the region.
