By Muhammad Mamman
The Chairman of Funtua Local Government Area in Katsina State has stirred nationwide outrage after photographs emerged showing him posing for selfies with armed bandits during a visit he described as part of a “peace initiative.”
In the viral images circulating on social media, the council boss — whose identity has been widely reported — is seen standing casually among gun-wielding men believed to be members of a notorious bandit group operating in the area.
Defending his actions, the chairman claimed the visit was aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation between local communities and the armed groups terrorising the region. He stated that dialogue, not force, remained the most effective path to lasting peace in Katsina’s troubled hinterlands.
However, the pictures have triggered sharp criticism from citizens and security experts, who described the move as “reckless” and “a dangerous legitimisation of criminality.” Many accused the official of undermining security operations by fraternising with terrorists responsible for killings, kidnappings, and destruction across Katsina and neighbouring states.
Neither the Katsina State Government nor the Police Command has issued an official statement as of the time of filing this report, though calls are mounting for an investigation into the incident.
The controversy comes amid growing insecurity in the North-West, where rural communities continue to suffer from attacks despite several peace efforts by government authorities.
