Matazu Residents Alarmed as Bandits Attend Peace Dialogue Armed with Heavy Weapons

Residents of Matazu Local Government Area have expressed deep concern after a peace dialogue on Saturday between community leaders, Islamic clerics, and notorious bandit groups took a disturbing turn.

Eyewitnesses reported that a feared bandit leader arrived at the meeting heavily armed with Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPGs), General Machine Guns (GMGs), and AK-47 rifles. The sight of such sophisticated weapons created tension among residents, who continue to face relentless attacks.

Community leaders and clerics at the talks were shocked by the brazen display of weapons during what was supposed 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?” one community leader lamented, noting that violence often escalates after such dialogues.

The clerics and local authorities stressed that genuine peace can only be achieved if all parties agree to lay down their arms without conditions, prioritising the security and well-being of residents.

Worried locals urged the government and security agencies to adopt stronger measures to ensure that future negotiations produce meaningful and lasting peace in the troubled region.