The elders apparently went on a mission to reconcile with the bandits, believing that a fruitful discourse would allow villagers to return to their farms this season.

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has distanced his administration from reported efforts by some elders in the Maradun Local Government Area to negotiate with terrorists operating in the state, stating that his government has never supported dialogue with bandits and will not change its stance.

The governor made the remarks during a Hausa-language interview with the BBC, which was monitored by SaharaReporters. He defended his administration’s security approach and responded to queries about recent attacks in regions of the state, despite assurances of better security.

Lawal responded to news that some community elders were kidnapped while attempting to negotiate with bandits owing to what they thought to be inadequate government protection. He claimed he had heard about the incident but questioned why anyone would embark on such a trip without official consent.

“As I said, who sent them to negotiate?” the governor asked. ”It certainly was not the government. We have consistently stated that we do not support negotiations with terrorists.

“I heard the reports, but I do not even know who those individuals are. We are investigating the matter, but it is wrong for people to pursue negotiations when the government has clearly rejected that approach.”

“From the outset, my position has been clear: I will not negotiate with terrorists,” Lawal reaffirmed, stating that his administration’s stance against talks with terrorists has not altered since he took office.

I still hold that opinion today. I don’t see why anyone would decide to engage in negotiations with criminals.