ZAMFARA: Bandits storm peace meeting in Gusau, to deliver ‘their own message’ to Gov, Police

The peace being craved in Zamfara state appears coming to reality as commander of bandits on Tuesday, sent representatives to attend a peace meeting with stakeholders in Gusau.

The meeting was attended by Governor Bello Muhammad Mutawalle, State Commissioner of police  Mr Usman Nagoggo, heads of security agencies, Fulani leaders, leaders of the local vigilante group, known as Yan Sakai and  other stakeholders.

Confirming the development to newsmen, the national chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) Alhaji Muhammadu Kiruwa, said they were taken by surprise when the armed men appeared before the commencement of the meeting, to convey message from their commander.

“The armed bandits’ representatives came here with a message. After this meeting, we will meet with state commissioner of police to deliver their message after which authorities will also pass their own message across to them,” Kariwu said.

He added that more people had volunteered to ensure peace reigned in the state, as they were already strategizing on how to covey their message to the bandits in their hideout.

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According to him, for peaceful atmosphere to be attained in the state, there must be total disarmament of all armed parties, including the local vigilantes known as Yan Sakai and the bandits in the forests.

The secretary of the Yan Sakai, Sani Babbar Doka, admitted unlawful executions of Fulani in market places and towns. “Mark my word, no Fulani will be executed again anywhere, any time in the state. We are going to strongly abide by the terms and agreements of the peace pact. But the bandits should halt further attacks and disarm,” he added.

The police commissioner who later arrived the event, said Fulani were now attending local markets without any harassment and that the attacks had drastically reduced.

Governor Mutawalle in his message during the meeting, said the resettlement and reintegration of Fulani into Ruga, would soon kick start in the three senatorial zones of the state.

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