Nigerians are allegedly incensed and alarmed after Ado Aleru, a reputed bandit lord who has been listed as sought by Nigerian security authorities, reappeared at a peace conference in Katsina State’s Danmusa Local Government Area.
The meeting was called to discuss methods to put a stop to the conflict between the local farming communities and Fulani herders, according to information obtained by The Intercept.
According to reports, Aleru spoke to stakeholders during the event and laid out steps to encourage peaceful coexistence in the area, despite being on the security radar.
Aleru had previously gone into hiding as military operations in Zamfara’s Tsafe Local Government Area grew more intense.
Aleru has long been connected to fatal attacks in Katsina and Zamfara States.
The bandit lord had fled to Asaula village in January, according to a report by The Intercept, while security authorities strategically ambushed his network.
His most recent presence has sparked intense debate over the efficacy and sincerity of peacebuilding initiatives in areas devastated by bandits.
“How are we sure he’s not doing this to buy himself time, evade justice, only to return stronger afterwards? This doesn’t make sense at all,” said Yahaya Abdulrahman, a concerned resident.
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Locals and security professionals have also voiced concerns that engaging wanted individuals in discussions could weaken current counterinsurgency initiatives and give other criminal elements more confidence.
