The Civil Society Coalition for Peace in Katsina State says the community-driven peace deal is achieving results that guns and drones could not.
Chairman of the coalition, Shamsudeen Salisu, stated this at a press briefing on Thursday in Katsina.
“Since the process began, drones and guns have gone silent. Kidnappings and attacks have dropped by about 90 per cent.
“Today, farmers can access their farms. Roads previously dangerous are now safe for travel.
“The peace deal has reopened schools and Primary Health Centres, providing essential services to women, children, and the general population.
“Internally Displaced Persons are returning to their original settlements, allowing the government to undertake development projects across the state,” he said.
He noted that the deal has fostered peaceful coexistence between Hausa and Fulani communities, and between pastoralists and farmers.
“Indeed, the peace deal has brought more gains. It is a success, not a failure.
“Now that benefits are evident, we must remain vigilant and prevent saboteurs from undermining the initiative,” he said.
He urged the state government, northern states, and the federal government to prioritise non-kinetic, community-driven approaches to countering violence.
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