By Peter Omopo
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda, has dismissed reports suggesting that his administration is holding peace talks with bandits, insisting that his government will never negotiate with criminals.
Speaking at the passing-out ceremony of the third batch of the Community Watch Corps (C-Watch) in Katsina on Wednesday, Radda said his administration remains firmly focused on achieving “genuine and sustainable peace” through community-driven security initiatives rather than appeasement.
“We Are Not Negotiating with Bandits” — Radda
“There have been headlines claiming the Katsina State Government is negotiating with bandits. That is far from reality,” Radda said.
“I have publicly maintained that the government will not negotiate with bandits but will always welcome peace. Our administration’s focus is on restoring lasting peace, not temporary truces.”
The governor reiterated that the “Katsina Model” — his administration’s community-based security strategy — empowers local communities to initiate dialogue with repentant bandits who voluntarily lay down their arms, while the state focuses on enforcing law and order and facilitating development.
“The government’s role is to support communities in peacebuilding while ensuring that those who choose to live peacefully also enjoy economic and social benefits,” he explained.
Progress Through the Community Peace Accord
Radda highlighted notable successes of the community peace initiative, revealing that Jibia had recorded eight months without a major attack, Batsari seven months, while Danmusa, Safana, Faskari, and Sabuwa have also enjoyed relative calm in recent months.
He said the newly inaugurated 100 C-Watch officers would be deployed across Kankia and Dutsin-Ma Local Government Areas, with 50 officers assigned to each.
“Dutsin-Ma, which borders Safana, Danmusa, and Matazu, has been a major flashpoint, and these officers will strengthen our security presence there,” Radda added.
Kinetic Operations Remain Central
While emphasising the importance of grassroots vigilance, the governor stressed that federal military and police operations remain central to Katsina’s broader security strategy.
“This ceremony demonstrates that the state government will not relent in fighting insecurity and banditry wherever they exist. Anyone who returns to crime will face the full force of the law,” he warned.
Radda commended the Nigerian Air Force, Army, and Police for their continued support and collaboration, noting that joint operations had improved intelligence sharing and rapid response to attacks.
“C-Watch Is Our First Line of Defence”
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Mu’azu, praised the initiative, describing it as “a homegrown solution designed to protect families and rebuild community confidence.”
“No doubt, the governor saw, analysed, and conquered — using a community-based approach where trained young men from their local areas serve as the first line of defence,” Mu’azu said.
He added that the ceremony marked the third phase of the C-Watch training since its inception in October 2023, with subsequent batches graduating in November 2024 and now October 2025.
Professional Training and Discipline Emphasised
The Chairman of the Standing Committee on the C-Watch Corps, Maj. Gen. Junaidu Bindawa (retd), said the recruits received intensive training in minor tactics, weapon handling, arrests, communication, intelligence gathering, community policing, and rules of engagement.
He described the officers as “disciplined, professional, and community-focused operatives,” but called for improvements in the command and control structure to enhance coordination across all levels.
Governor Radda concluded by urging the officers to maintain professionalism and respect for human rights.
“You are not only security personnel — you are ambassadors of peace and unity in Katsina. Uphold integrity, professionalism, and fairness in all you do,” he said.
