The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has condemned the Katsina State government for releasing about 70 suspected and convicted bandits, describing the action as dangerous and a threat to justice and security.
In a statement on Tuesday – earlier today, January 13, 2026 – the group rejected the government’s claim that the releases were part of a “peace deal,” warning that negotiating with criminals from a position of weakness would only worsen insecurity.
National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, said comparing the release of bandits to wartime prisoner exchanges was misleading and unacceptable.
“Nigeria is not at war with a recognised enemy. These are criminal terrorists who have killed citizens, destroyed communities and displaced families. Treating them as negotiating partners without defeating them first undermines the authority of the state,” he said.
Charanchi stressed that while the coalition is not against dialogue, peace must be pursued only after the state has demonstrated strength and restored law and order.
He expressed concern that suspects facing trial were being freed even as attacks continued in parts of Katsina, including Malumfashi Local Government Area.
“If these peace deals are working, communities should not still be under siege. Violence continuing alongside concessions shows the deals are weak and inconsistent,” he said.
The coalition also faulted the government for ignoring the plight of victims, noting that families who lost loved ones and livelihoods had been denied justice.
CNG called on the federal government and security agencies to intensify operations against bandits and urged the Katsina State government to halt further releases and respect judicial processes.
“Peace is not built by rewarding violence. Justice is not optional,” the statement added.
