Repentant bandits emerge from forest to attend coronation of Batsari district head in Katsina 

Several repentant bandits and former armed-group members reportedly came out of the forest on Sunday to attend the coronation of Alhaji Sani Tukur as the new Sarkin Ruman Katsina, District Head of Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

Security expert Bakatsine, who shared the information on X, said their presence was one of the major highlights of the ceremony.

Batsari has faced years of banditry and insecurity, making the appearance of the former fighters at the event significant.

“The repentant fighters reportedly expressed their support for the new District Head and the ongoing peace efforts in the area. Some also brought cows, milk and other gifts as a gesture of goodwill,” he posted.

The development is being seen as another indication of changing security conditions in Batsari, where local efforts to promote peace and reconciliation have been ongoing.

However, some bandits who had previously dropped their weapons have renewed hostilities in the state.

They have reportedly unleashed even more traumatising attacks on residents.

The government had earlier warned residents against engaging in peace talks with bandits at the community level, citing fears that such engagements could lead to more attacks.