Residents of Matazu Local Government Area have raised
concerns following a peace dialogue held on Saturday between community leaders,
Islamic clerics, and notorious bandit groups in the area.
Eyewitnesses reported that a notorious bandit leader
attended the meeting armed with Rocket-Propelled Grenades, RPGs, General
Machine Guns, GMGs, and AK-47 rifles, sparking anxiety among residents who
continue to suffer frequent attacks.
Community leaders and clerics present at the talks expressed
shock at the display of sophisticated weapons during what was meant to be a
peace initiative.
“You came to a peace talk with AK-47 rifles, RPGs, and GMGs,
and you return to the bush with the same weapons.
“How can this be called a peace deal?” a community leader
asked, lamenting the recurring attacks that often escalate after such
dialogues.
The clerics and local authorities stressed that for any
genuine peace process to succeed, all parties must commit to laying down their
arms without preconditions, prioritising the safety and security of residents
above personal or group interests.
Residents further urged the government and security agencies
to adopt stronger measures to ensure that future negotiations result in
sustainable peace in the region.
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