By Cynthia Abah
Peace has returned to parts of Kaduna State as former bandits pledged to uphold a recently brokered peace agreement facilitated by the state government.
The development offers hope to communities in Birnin-Gwari, Buruku, and Sabon Birni, which endured over a decade of violence.
The former insurgents, who had terrorized the region for years, expressed remorse for their past actions and sought forgiveness from the government and affected communities.
They also appealed for support in reintegrating into society, including access to education for their children.
During a peace dialogue on Sunday, a prominent Fulani elder, speaking on behalf of notorious bandit leader Jan Bross, urged Fulani leaders nationwide to foster peace.
“We are grateful for this peace agreement and will continue praying for its success. We assure Governor Uba Sani and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, of our commitment to peaceful coexistence,” he stated.
A former bandit who had relocated to Niger State during the crisis shared his return to Birnin-Gwari and appealed for cooperation from local vigilante groups.
“We ask vigilantes to support this process and avoid actions that could jeopardize it,” he said.
Muhammadu Lawali, another former bandit, described the agreement as genuine, unlike previous failed attempts.
“For the first time in years, I can move freely and interact with others. This agreement has restored our hope,” he noted.
Yes Power, another former bandit, expressed joy at the reopening of the Birnin-Gwari cattle market, which had been closed for 12 years.
“I sold my cow today, and I hope this peace continues so the town can prosper again,” he added.
In collaboration with federal agencies, the Kaduna State Government has established a Peace Dialogue Group to sustain the process.
This initiative has already yielded positive results, including the reopening of the Birnin-Gwari cattle market and a revival of the grain market.
Reports indicate that over 50 trucks of livestock have been transported to various destinations across the country, signaling economic recovery.
Farmers have also resumed preparations for the upcoming planting season in previously inaccessible areas.
Malam Mustapha, a farmer in Birnin-Gwari, lauded the reconciliation.
“We now see each other as brothers. The Fulani and Hausa are working together once again,” he said.
The Sarkin Zango of Birnin-Gwari, Hambali Muhammad, expressed relief at the restored normalcy.
“For over a decade, this market was abandoned. Today, it is full of life. We thank Almighty Allah and the government,” he remarked.
The peace agreement includes the formation of a Peace and Reconciliation Committee comprising government officials, Fulani and Hausa leaders, and other stakeholders.
The committee convenes regularly to manage potential conflicts and ensure adherence to the agreement.
Zubairu AbdulRauf, the peace process coordinator, expressed optimism that this model could be replicated nationwide.
“This initiative has demonstrated that dialogue and mutual understanding can resolve even the most complex conflicts,” he concluded.
