By Shehu Bakori
The Peace and Reconciliation Committee of Bakori Local Government Area has commenced a tour of communities in the council area as part of efforts to strengthen the recently reviewed peace agreement reached with bandit leaders operating in the region.
The committee—led by the Chairman of Bakori LGA, Hon. Abubakar Musa Barde—visited Kakumi, Guga, and Jargaba wards, where it held engagements with traditional rulers, community representatives, youth groups, and other stakeholders.
Speaking during the visits, Hon. Barde said the committee had earlier held a series of meetings with the bandit leaders to review the initial peace accord that was signed in Kakumi. According to him, the review produced “clearer and more detailed terms” intended to bring an end to recurring attacks and insecurity in the area.
Highlights of the Revised Agreement
The chairman outlined several key elements of the updated accord, including:
1. Cessation of Attacks:
Bandits are expected to immediately cease all forms of attacks on communities within Bakori LGA.
2. No Movement With Arms:
While they are permitted to move freely, they must do so without carrying weapons. Any person found moving with arms is to be arrested, prosecuted, and reported to their leaders.
3. Internal Sanctions:
The bandit leaders reportedly committed to sanctioning any member found attacking, extorting, or harassing individuals or communities.
4. Protection of Fulani Residents:
Fulani residents and their families are guaranteed freedom of movement and the ability to conduct their lawful activities—such as attending markets, schools, and public places—without molestation.
5. Guidelines for Vigilante Groups:
Vigilante members are to stop moving around with weapons in public, and must refrain from arresting, harassing, or harming anyone suspected to be a bandit outside the agreed framework.
6. Ban on Gunshots:
Shooting guns at night or during public gatherings is prohibited to reduce fear and tension in the communities.
Hon. Barde urged community leaders across the affected wards to enlighten their people on the content of the agreement and the need to strictly adhere to the provisions to ensure lasting peace.
Calm Returning to Communities
Our correspondent, Shehu Bakori, who accompanied the committee on the tour, reports that normalcy is gradually returning to many areas visited. Farmers were seen harvesting their crops, while traders and artisans carried on with their daily activities.
Additionally, several families who had previously fled their homes due to insecurity were observed returning to their communities.
Residents confirmed that no attack had been reported in the four days since the new agreement was concluded—an early positive sign that the peace effort may be gaining traction.
Authorities say engagements will continue in order to build trust, monitor compliance, and sustain the emerging calm across Bakori and neighbouring communities.
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