A recent peace agreement celebrated by the Kaduna State Government under Governor Uba Sani has been marred by renewed attacks and kidnappings, raising concerns over its effectiveness. Armed bandits have abducted over 20 villagers in separate incidents, intensifying insecurity in the state despite efforts to broker peace.

On Sunday, armed bandits stormed Gurgu village in Kajuru Local Government, abducting at least 25 individuals, including the traditional ruler, Halidu Galadima, and his wife, Martha Galadima. A local resident recounted the ordeal, confirming that most of the victims were mourners.

"About 25 people were kidnapped, including my relation, the village head, his wife, and 23 others," the resident said. "Seven people were also injured during the attack."

In a separate incident on Monday, armed bandits attacked Iduh village in Kauru Local Government Area, killing one person and abducting several others.

Meanwhile, bandits continue to hold hostages abducted from Alheri Baptist Church in Gyiya, Chikun Local Government Area. These individuals have remained in captivity for over two weeks, compounding concerns about persistent insecurity in the region.

The recent incidents have cast a shadow over Governor Uba Sani’s peace initiative. Critics, including columnist Dele Sobowale, have expressed skepticism about the impact of the agreement. In response, the government has faced allegations of attempting to suppress dissenting views by deploying "hired goons" to counter Sobowale’s criticisms in the media.

In November 2024, Governor Sani granted pardons to a group of ‘repentant’ terrorists, marking a significant step in his administration’s peace strategy. These individuals had been active in terrorizing the region, leading to the decade-long closure of the cattle market in Birnin Gwari.

Speaking at an event, Governor Sani reaffirmed his commitment to fairness and justice. “I will be fair to everyone, be they farmers, herders, or traders, in order to achieve lasting peace and development,” he stated.

The governor emphasized the success of dialogue efforts with senior bandit leaders, many of whom had surrendered their arms and embraced peace. “Through numerous meetings and extensive discussions, we have built bridges of trust. Several senior bandit leaders had laid their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers,” he added.

Governor Sani highlighted a rehabilitation program designed to reintegrate ‘repentant’ bandits into society. Developed in collaboration with the federal government, the program adheres to international standards of disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR).

“This program ensures that these individuals can return to society as productive citizens,” he explained. However, the governor warned that while his administration welcomed peace-seeking individuals, it would act decisively against those who continued to perpetrate violence.

The resurgence of kidnappings has left many questioning whether the peace deal can truly curb the escalating insecurity in Kaduna State. As the government navigates this challenging landscape, the efficacy of its strategies will remain under scrutiny.