Kachalla Ummaru, described as a “notorious bandit kingpin,” has cautioned security agencies against relying on military force to tackle insecurity, warning that it only worsens the situation.
Ummaru made the remarks during a peace dialogue between armed groups and community leaders in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State.
A video shared by counter-insurgency outlet Zagazola Makama captured Ummaru arguing that killings fuel further recruitment. “If today you kill 10 bandits, tomorrow you’ll see 20… you kill 20, another 30 will rise both in our bushes and villages,” he said.
He went on to accuse the government of neglecting citizens while pursuing revenue. “Truth be told, the government doesn’t care about anyone, all it’s after is how to generate money. If the government cared about the people, all these things won’t be happening,” he added.
The bandit leader also criticized residents for tipping off security forces. “You people (residents of Matazu LGA) are also part of the problem because you are fond of complaining to security operatives and giving them information, and even when they come to where we are, they don’t kill even a bird, but you’ll hear in the news that 10 bandits have been killed and they’ll be paid,” he said. “If these security operatives won’t be told to leave us alone then I don’t think these peace talks have any importance.”
Speaking directly to the divisional police officer (DPO) of Danmusa LGA, Ummaru stressed the need for mutual respect in the peace process. “To you the DPO of Danmusa LGA, if you want these our peace talks to yield anything tangible, then every favour we seek should be considered and done for us and from your end,” he said.
“Anything you request from us (bandits) we see to it that it is done. This is just the truth of the matter. It would be shameful if you come to us for something and we don’t do it for you and the same thing goes for you… it would be shameful if we come to you for something and you don’t do it for us. Let us help one another and live in peace and I pray all that we have discussed is something that will be of benefit to us all.”
The meeting, attended by community elders and security representatives, aimed to encourage reconciliation amid ongoing violence in Katsina and surrounding states.
Last week, in a sign of progress, 28 abductees were freed in Faskari LGA after negotiations led by local authorities. Stakeholders have urged both security agencies and armed groups to commit to genuine peace for the safety of residents.
