A lecturer at Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, Dr. Bashir Usman Ruwan Godiya, has accused the Katsina State Government of adopting a “double-faced” approach in its handling of banditry and peace negotiations.
Dr. Ruwan Godiya made the allegation while speaking on Channels Television during a discussion on dialogue with armed groups, monitored by The News Chronicle on Wednesday.
He questioned the state government’s repeated denial of involvement in negotiations, arguing that such claims contradict reports that several local government chairmen are actively participating in peace talks with bandits.
According to him, the situation is confusing and contradictory, noting that regardless of public denials, the state government remains implicated in the peace process through the actions of its officials at the local government level.
The academic further criticized what he described as the absence of sustained public discourse on the human and material losses suffered by communities affected by bandit attacks.
He lamented that attention appears to have shifted away from victims, despite the continued impact of violence on lives and livelihoods.
Dr. Ruwan Godiya’s remarks have added to the growing debate over transparency, accountability and the true extent of government involvement in negotiations with armed groups in Katsina State, as insecurity continues to challenge communities across the region.
