Kaduna Community Refuses to Negotiate with Bandits

The Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State, has blamed the recent Easter attacks on their refusal to negotiate with bandits. Community leader Jashua Doka stated in an exclusive interview that neighboring communities allegedly aligned with criminals had repeatedly approached Ariko leaders to encourage negotiations.

However, the community rejected these overtures on moral and religious grounds, insisting that negotiating with terrorists would undermine their values. Doka disclosed that the community has faced attacks as a result of their stance, with bandits targeting them for resisting demands.

The community has called for government intervention, having previously written to authorities requesting security personnel, but noted that no significant action has been taken. Doka also expressed concern over the release of individuals arrested for collaborating with bandits, warning that this could undermine local efforts to resist criminal elements.

The community remains resolute in their decision not to negotiate with terrorists, urging the government to intensify efforts to restore security and hold perpetrators accountable.