“While you gather books, we’ve gathered AK-47 rifles” – Bandit leader speaks during Katsina peace meeting

A yet-to-be-identified bandit kingpin has sparked reactions after making bold remarks about his group’s capabilities during a peace meeting in Katsina State.

The comments were captured in a video shared by security expert Zagazola Makama, where the armed leader was seen addressing authorities in Dutsenma Local Government Area alongside members of his group.

During the meeting, the kingpin acknowledged that his group lacks formal education but insisted that this has not limited their ability to handle firearms effectively.

“We did not go to school and we are not educated, but even without schooling, we know how to operate an AK-47,” he said.

He went on to compare his group with educated individuals, suggesting that their strength lies in weapons rather than academic knowledge.

“While you gather books on your shelves, we have gathered AK-47 rifles,” he said, raising his weapon as the crowd responded with chants of “Yay!”

The bandit leader also emphasized the need for trust and accountability in ongoing negotiations, stating that agreements must be honored by both parties.

“If we make promises to you, we try to fulfil them. We expect you to do the same. This is one of our major concerns,” he said.

He further alleged that many members of his group remain in detention across several states, criticizing authorities for failing to secure their release despite previous discussions.

“There is no state without our people in detention; Katsina, Kano and even Abuja. Many of our men and women have been detained, but when we ask for their release, nothing happens. These are our complaints to the Nigerian leaders,” he said.

Accusing officials of not keeping to agreements, he added:

“Your leaders come to meet us and we agree on certain issues, but once they leave, they go back and sit comfortably in their ACs, without fulfilling those promises,” he said, drawing laughter from those present.

He also warned that his group could withdraw from dialogue if their concerns are ignored.

“All the people you see here may disappear into the forest for months if we are not invited again for discussions. You may only find small children left behind.”

Concluding his remarks, the leader assured that his group remains open to further dialogue if their detained members are released.

“If you release our people, even if you call us to Katsina, we will come. We are not afraid to go anywhere, but we fear unfulfilled promises,” he said.