Repentant bandits in Birnin Gwari Emirate, Buruku, and Sabon Birni communities have appealed for forgiveness for the atrocities they committed, pledging to abide by a newly brokered peace agreement.
Speaking during a meeting with Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, the former bandits assured of their commitment to being law-abiding citizens and fostering peace.
The bandits, many of whom had spent over a decade in isolation within forests, expressed their desire to reintegrate into society. They appealed to the government for support in allowing their children to access education and facilitating their return to a stable community life.
A Fulani elder representing bandit leader, Jan Bross, alongside Fulani community leader Ardo, emphasized the need for Fulani leaders nationwide to promote peace and encourage their communities to lay down arms.
“We are grateful for this peace pact and shall continue to pray for its sustainability,” he said, urging other regions to emulate Kaduna’s approach.
The Chairman of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Hon. Salisu Isa, expressed joy at the return of peace and the revival of activities in the local government headquarters, which had been a ghost town for years due to insecurity. During the height of the banditry crisis, critical infrastructure such as banks, schools, and post office were destroyed, forcing the council to relocate its operations to Kaduna City.
To ensure the agreement endures, the council has inaugurated a Peace and Reconciliation Committee comprising key stakeholders from the government, Hausa, and Fulani communities. The committee holds regular meetings to monitor and sustain the peace process.
Hon. Isa also urged other conflict-affected areas to adopt similar peace-building strategies, noting that Birnin Gwari’s experience could serve as a template for fostering reconciliation and rebuilding.
Despite the progress, some concerns persist. A Fulani leader, Alhaji Isa, called on the government to address complaints about vigilante groups in neighboring Niger State, who allegedly obstruct the free movement of cattle traders.
In response, Hon. Isa assured the community that the council would engage Niger State authorities to resolve the issue, stressing the importance of collaboration to sustain peace.
Repentant bandits in Kaduna seek forgiveness, say they are committed to peace