Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
In a significant and unexpected development, Isiya Kwashen Garwa, a high profile bandit leader featured on Nigeria most wanted list, has reportedly stepped forward to engage in peace negotiations in Katsina State.
Garwa, whose name appears among 19 highly sought terrorists and bandits nationwide, presented himself in the Hayin Gada community of Faskari Local Government Area, expressing a willingness to pursue dialogue.
The announcement was made via social media on Sunday by Zagazola Makama, a respected counter-insurgency analyst.
Long implicated in widespread violence including killings, kidnappings, and raids across Katsina and neighboring states.
Garwa hails from Kamfanin Daudawa village. Security experts have previously identified him as a key figure in armed networks contributing to instability throughout North-West and North Central Nigeria, often capitalizing on limited state presence to conduct cross border attacks.
While Garwa’s recent move suggests a potential shift in strategy, it has sparked mixed reactions among locals and security observers. Some residents welcome the prospect of peace and reduced violence in areas long plagued by insecurity. Others, however, remain deeply skeptical, questioning the sincerity of a figure linked to severe atrocities and warning against the risks of negotiating with individuals with such violent histories.
The situation remains fluid as community leaders and security officials carefully assess the implications of this proposed peace deal and its potential impact on ongoing efforts to restore stability to the region.
