Ado Aleru, a notorious bandit leader long declared wanted by Nigerian security agencies, has once again appeared in public — this time at the helm of a “peace meeting” in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The meeting, reportedly aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence between Fulani herders and other local communities, was attended by members of the Nigerian Army, community leaders, and several armed groups — including Aleru’s faction.
Despite his fugitive status, Aleru not only attended the gathering but was also seen addressing participants and actively engaging in discussions. This latest appearance adds to the string of controversial engagements involving the wanted kingpin, who has previously participated in similar dialogues while continuing to lead violent attacks in the region.
Aleru, infamously known for orchestrating brutal assaults, was declared wanted by the Katsina State Police Command in 2019, with a N5 million bounty placed on his head. He is believed to have masterminded the deadly raid on Kadisau village in Faskari LGA, where 52 people were killed.
His public resurfacing follows an earlier controversy in 2022 when he was controversially conferred with a traditional title in Zamfara State under the administration of former governor Bello Matawalle — now Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence.
Zamfara, like Katsina, has remained a hotspot for banditry and rural violence. In 2019, the state government entered a peace pact with bandit groups, and by 2020, it had reportedly distributed brand new Hilux vehicles and cash incentives to some so-called repentant leaders. Yet, attacks have persisted, with numerous communities still facing kidnappings and killings despite the government’s concessions.
The inclusion of security forces at Aleru’s latest meeting has raised questions about the Nigerian government’s strategy in tackling banditry — particularly the continued tolerance or cooperation with individuals accused of terrorizing innocent citizens.
