In a troubling turn of events that has deepened fears across parts of Zamfara State, about 50 elderly residents of Magamin Diddi village in Maradun Local Government Area are now in captivity after what was meant to be a peace mission ended in abduction.
The elders had reportedly taken a bold and controversial step earlier in June—travelling voluntarily into a forest stronghold believed to be controlled by a notorious bandit commander identified as Jammo, who operates around the Muntsira Forest axis. Their goal was simple but desperate: secure a safe understanding that would allow farmers return to their lands without fear of attack.
But the mission, driven by community survival instincts in a region long battered by insecurity, collapsed in the most tragic way. Instead of returning with assurances, the delegation was taken hostage, turning a peace attempt into a mass kidnapping incident.
The development has since triggered strong reactions, especially as questions grow over whether civilians should ever attempt direct negotiations with armed groups operating outside state control.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Dauda Lawal distanced his administration from the move, stressing that the state government had no knowledge of, or involvement in, the visit to the bandits’ enclave.
He maintained that the elders acted on their own initiative, insisting that no official approval was given for any form of engagement with criminal elements.
No Negotiation With Bandits
The governor restated his firm opposition to negotiations with armed groups, warning that such actions fall outside government policy and should not be undertaken independently by citizens.
While confirming that investigations are ongoing, he reaffirmed his administration’s position that dialogue with terrorists is not part of its strategy, describing it as a dangerous path that could undermine security efforts.
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Meanwhile, the incident has reopened a familiar and emotional debate across Zamfara communities. For many residents, it is yet another painful reminder of the fragile security situation that continues to disrupt farming, displace families, and restrict rural life.
Some community members argue that persistent refusal to engage in dialogue has worsened attacks on villages and left farmers increasingly vulnerable. Others, however, insist that negotiating with armed groups only strengthens their influence and legitimacy.
Despite the controversy, the state government maintains that ongoing security operations have recorded some improvements, even though it acknowledges that the threat of banditry remains far from over.