The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has opposed the Katsina State Government’s plan to free 70 bandits in custody, calling the move dangerous, irresponsible, and a direct betrayal of the victims.
The opposition party warned that proceeding with the release would erode public trust in the administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, demoralize hardworking security forces, and embolden criminal gangs.
Addressing journalists in Katsina yesterday, ADC spokesperson Lawal Batagarawa described the decision as a grave injustice that dishonours officers who have paid the ultimate price in the fight against banditry and would undermine confidence in the government’s anti-insecurity efforts.
“As a party, we condemn in the strongest terms the planned release of 70 suspected bandits by the Katsina State Government. It is totally unacceptable and irresponsible for any government to free criminals while communities continue to suffer,” he stated.
The controversy stems from a leaked letter dated January 2, 2026, from the Katsina State Ministry of Justice, signed by Director of Public Prosecutions Abdur-Rahman Umar.
The letter requested the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee to facilitate the release of the 70 alleged bandits as part of efforts to sustain peace agreements.
Meanwhile, the Katsina government defended the plan, explaining it as a necessary step to consolidate peace deals negotiated between affected communities and repentant bandits in several frontline local government areas.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs Nasir Muazu emphasised that the move aims to reinforce these accords and promote lasting stability.
However, Batagarawa insisted that freeing the suspects would only encourage more criminality, demoralise security personnel, dishonour fallen heroes, and embolden criminal gangs terrorising rural communities.
