On October 12, 2025, authorities in Katsina State, Nigeria, conducted dialogues with bandit groups in Bakori, Kafur, Malumfashi, Kankara, and Funtua local government areas, culminating in a signed agreement to halt attacks, kidnappings, and killings.

Bandit representatives attended openly armed with AK-47s and RPGs, raising concerns among residents and analysts about the pact’s effectiveness without disarmament provisions.

The initiative, facilitated by local officials including Bakori Council Chairman Abubakar Barde, follows prior negotiations that released hostages but has drawn criticism for potentially legitimizing criminal activities amid Nigeria’s broader security challenges.