A video shared online captures a gathering in Katsina State’s Faskari Local Government Area, where local traditional leaders and numerous armed herders, many visibly carrying weapons, came together for a peace meeting with wanted bandit leader Ado Alero.
This meeting aimed to tackle the escalating insecurity in the region.
Alero, who spoke on behalf of the bandits during the discussions, noted that this was not the first peace initiative in the area but emphasized the unprecedented turnout.
He explained that tensions with security forces escalated following the arrest of one of his associates, which occurred without any explanation despite his appeals to local and state officials.
He accused security agencies of perpetrating violence against Fulani communities and called for justice and fairness from both federal and state authorities.
When questioned about the meeting, Alero reiterated that it was not the first peace dialogue in Faskari, mentioning that similar discussions had occurred in other regions of Katsina State.
Regarding the motivation for the peace talks, he stated that “this meeting was prompted by the arrest of one of my men.
“At that time, our relationship with security operatives was strained. I inquired about the reason for his arrest, but no explanation was provided.
“I reached out to the Faskari Local Government and the state government, including discussions with the Secretary to the Katsina State Governor and the former Chairman of Miyetti Allah, before his passing.
“We followed the proper channels, but we could not secure his release, and we were never informed of the reasons for his arrest.”
Alero characterized the recent peace initiative as unprecedented, saying “since we began holding peace meetings, we have never seen such a large gathering.
“This meeting gives me hope that, God willing, peace will be restored, not just in Faskari and Katsina State, but throughout the entire country.”
Also present was Fulani herder, Kwashé Garwa, who was seen with ammunition on his waist.
He criticized the labeling of Fulani herders as bandits, asserting that criminality is present in all ethnic groups.
He highlighted the challenges they face, such as killings, kidnappings, and property destruction.
He questioned, “in Nigeria, whenever there is a discussion, Fulani herders are labeled as bandits and terrorists.”
