The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned the Katsina State Government’s plan to release 70 suspected bandits, warning that the decision could increase insecurity in frontline communities and embolden criminal networks.
Speaking at a press conference in Katsina on Tuesday, ADC spokesperson Lawal Tukur-Batagarawa described the proposed release as dangerous, unjust, and a betrayal of victims of banditry. He said the move risks undermining public confidence in the government’s ongoing fight against insecurity.
According to a leaked letter from the Ministry of Justice dated January 2, 2026, the state government has begun legal processes to secure the release of the detainees. The letter, signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Abdur-Rahman Umar, requested the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) to facilitate the release, reportedly to consolidate peace agreements with armed groups in affected areas.
The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, defended the plan as a step to reinforce agreements between communities and repentant bandits.
Tukur-Batagarawa, however, warned that the move would demoralise security personnel, dishonour officers who have lost their lives combating banditry, and encourage criminal elements. “We condemn in the strongest terms the planned release of 70 suspected bandits. It is irresponsible for any government to free criminals while communities continue to suffer”, he said.
At the press conference, Tukur-Batagarawa also announced the inauguration of the ADC’s state leadership, headed by Ahmed Aliyu-Yar’Adua, and the creation of a membership mobilisation, registration, and revalidation committee chaired by Mustapha Inuwa.
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