The Chairman of Funtua Local Government Area in Katsina State has stirred controversy after reports emerged that he visited a group of armed bandits in their forest hideout, describing the move as part of a “peace initiative.”
In a viral video circulating on social media, the council chairman was seen interacting with the gunmen, who were heavily armed, during what he claimed was an effort to promote dialogue and end years of violence in the region.
Defending his action, the chairman stated that the visit was approved as part of local conflict resolution strategies aimed at restoring peace and security in Funtua and its surrounding communities.
“We are trying to build trust and encourage them to embrace peace. Dialogue is the first step before reconciliation,” he reportedly said.
However, the visit has sparked mixed reactions across the state, with critics questioning the morality and legality of negotiating directly with armed groups responsible for numerous attacks, kidnappings, and killings in Katsina and neighboring states.
Security analysts have also warned that such engagements could embolden the bandits and undermine ongoing military operations in the region.
The Katsina State Government has not yet issued an official statement on the visit.
