ZAMFARA, NIGERIA — At least 50 elderly residents of Magamin Diddi village in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State have been abducted by suspected bandits while on a reconciliation mission to meet a notorious bandit leader identified as Jammo.
The victims were reportedly traveling to Dajin Natsira Forest for peace talks after receiving an invitation from the bandit kingpin, who allegedly expressed interest in ending hostilities and pursuing reconciliation with the community.
Confirming the incident, Maradun Local Government Chairman, Bello Dosara, said the peace mission was carried out without the approval or knowledge of the Zamfara State Government. He stressed that the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal has consistently opposed negotiations and reconciliation agreements with armed groups operating in the state.
“We are against reconciliation with the bandits, and Governor Dauda Lawal has never supported such arrangements. Unknown to us, the people decided to proceed with the meeting on their own,” Dosara said.
According to local authorities, Jammo later released 11 of the abducted elders, reportedly to allow them to return and inform the community about the incident. However, the remaining 39 individuals are still being held captive.
The Councillor representing Magami/Faru Ward, Bello Husseini, disclosed that the bandit leader had initially requested the meeting after one of his fighters was killed during a recent military operation. He said the community agreed to attend the peace talks in hopes of restoring stability in the area.
Husseini, however, accused the bandit leader of betraying the delegation upon arrival.
“He told the community he was tired of banditry and wanted reconciliation, but instead he abducted the elders who came to meet him,” the councillor said.
He further alleged that Jammo is demanding ₦24 million in exchange for the release of the hostages, claiming the money is compensation for three rifles previously seized from his group.
Local officials have condemned the abduction and renewed calls for intensified military operations in Dajin Natsira Forest, a known hideout for armed criminal groups. They argued that stronger security measures remain the most effective way to restore peace and protect vulnerable communities across Zamfara State.
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