Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, has urged state governments to immediately halt negotiations with bandits, saying such talks undermine military operations.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Musa warned that negotiating with bandits is counterproductive, as the criminals often break agreements and show no fear of God.
He also disclosed that the Katsina State government was cautioned over its recent decision to facilitate the release of 70 suspected bandits in custody.
The Katsina government had defended the move, describing it as a key step in consolidating community peace agreements with “repentant bandits” across several local government areas.
“Negotiating with bandits is not the solution. These people are not genuine. Whenever they come for reconciliation, they always demand something,” Musa said in Hausa.
“We warned Katsina not to make the mistake of reconciling with them. They are liars. We have asked everyone to stop negotiating with them, including the government. It is not right, and they will definitely return. They do not fear God.”
Musa added that such negotiations negatively impact the work of security forces, stressing that while Nigeria is a democracy, the government is still engaging with states to address the issue.
The minister also dismissed claims that the federal government pays ransom to kidnappers.
“Paying ransom is not right. People must stop paying ransom when kidnappings occur. Reports should be made, and actions will be taken,” he said.
“The federal government does not pay ransom. If ransom is paid, it is done by other individuals acting independently.”
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