Public anger erupted in Katsina State on Sunday following the involvement of notorious terrorist kingpin Ado Aleru—previously declared wanted by police—in a government-backed peace dialogue in Danmusa Local Government Area.
Aleru, who has been on the police watchlist since 2020 for leading violent attacks across Katsina and neighbouring Zamfara State, was seen at a Saturday meeting in Bichi community, addressing local stakeholders, including military personnel, traditional leaders, farmers, and government officials.
The controversial meeting, aimed at fostering peace in the terror-stricken region, has drawn sharp criticism from residents and security experts, with many expressing outrage over the decision to engage known insurgents in dialogue rather than pursue justice.
In a video that has since circulated online, Aleru spoke about strategies to ensure peaceful coexistence between herders, farmers, and other local communities, sparking renewed debate about the ethics and effectiveness of negotiating with wanted criminals.
A top Katsina State government source, speaking to THISDAY, condemned the move, arguing that Aleru’s reemergence should have led to his arrest—not negotiation.
“Ado Aleru was declared wanted with a ₦5 million bounty on his head. He’s not a trustworthy figure. If he’s now made himself available, the authorities should arrest him, not strike a deal,” the official said.
Despite public backlash, the State Commissioner for Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mua’zu, defended the peace initiative in an interview with BBC Hausa. He confirmed that Aleru and seven other terrorist leaders have voluntarily renounced violence, surrendered their arms, and released 17 hostages to their families.
Dr. Mua’zu said the state had spent two years fighting the insurgents and that the government’s position remains firm: only those who genuinely abandon terrorism will be accepted back into society.
“It is against Islamic principles and international law to continue fighting those who have laid down their arms and embraced peace,” he said.
The Commissioner insisted the gesture is in line with both humanitarian principles and long-term security goals. However, critics remain skeptical about the sincerity of the repentant terrorists and warn that such deals could jeopardize broader counterterrorism efforts.
