The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a warning to the Federal Government of Nigeria against negotiating with bandits and terrorists or granting them amnesty. CAN expressed concern about reports of officials from the federal government engaging in negotiations with bandits in Zamfara State.
The Secretary of CAN, North-West Zone, Sunday Oibe, stated that it is shameful and disgusting for the Nigerian state to continue such negotiations. He emphasized that there is no room for negotiating with criminals and enemies of the state. Oibe suggested that if the Nigerian government is unable to effectively combat terrorism, it should seek help from external sources rather than negotiating with criminals.
The statement reflects concerns about the government’s approach to addressing insecurity, particularly in regions plagued by banditry and terrorism. The issue of negotiating with armed groups has been a topic of debate in Nigeria, with some advocating for dialogue and others emphasizing the need for a more forceful response to insecurity.