ADC condemns Katsina government’s plan to release 70 suspected bandits, warning it undermines security efforts and betrays victims
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda’s administration over plans to release 70 suspected bandits currently in custody, describing the move as “dangerous, unjust, and a grave betrayal” of victims across frontline local government areas.
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Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, ADC spokesperson Lawal Tukur-Batagarawa warned that freeing the detainees would erode public confidence in the government’s fight against insecurity.
The party’s statement followed revelations from a leaked letter, dated January 2, 2026, from the Ministry of Justice.
Signed by Director of Public Prosecutions Abdur-Rahman Umar, the letter requested the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) to facilitate the release of the 70 suspects.
The government said the action aimed to sustain ongoing peace agreements with armed groups in the state.
Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, explained the release was intended to consolidate peace deals with affected communities and repentant bandits.
Tukur-Batagarawa, however, argued that the plan would demoralise security personnel, dishonour officers who have died in the line of duty, and embolden criminals terrorising rural communities.
“As a party, we condemn in the strongest terms the planned release of 70 suspected bandits by the Katsina State Government,” he said.
“It is totally unacceptable and irresponsible for any government to free criminals while communities continue to bleed.”
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During the press briefing, Tukur-Batagarawa also announced the inauguration of the ADC’s state leadership, headed by Ahmed Aliyu-Yar’Adua, and the constitution of a membership mobilisation, registration, and revalidation committee chaired by Dr Mustapha Inuwa.
(NAN)
