The Civil Society Coalition for Peace in Katsina State says community-driven peace agreements are producing results that guns and drones could not.
Chairman of the coalition, Shamsuddin Salisu, said this at a press conference in Katsina on Thursday.
“Since the process started, drones and guns have gone silent. Kidnappings and attacks have dropped by about 90 percent.
“Today, farmers can reach their fields. Previously dangerous roads are now safe to travel.
“The peace agreement has led to the reopening of schools and primary health centres, which provide essential services to women, children and the general population.
“Internally displaced people are returning to their native settlements, allowing the government to undertake development projects across the state,” he said.
He said the agreement has promoted peaceful co-existence between the Hausa and Fulani communities and herders and farmers.
“In fact, the peace agreement has brought more benefits. It is a success, not a failure.”
“Now that the benefits are clear, we must remain vigilant and prevent saboteurs from undermining the initiative,” he said.
He urged the State Government, the Northern States and the Federal Government to prioritize non-monetary, community-driven approaches to combating violence.
