Outrage has erupted in Katsina State following reports that Engr. Sagir Tanimu, the Chairman of Sabuwa Local Government Area (LGA), attended a wedding ceremony for the children of notorious bandits deep in a forest. This event occurred just weeks after a controversial peace pact that failed to secure the surrender of weapons.

The wedding occurred in Kadawan Dandume village, a community that had recently reconciled with authorities following years of violent clashes. Tanimu’s attendance has triggered accusations of legitimizing criminal activities.

Multiple reports indicate that Tanimu was seen smiling and celebrating alongside Fulani residents and bandit families, accompanied by notable figures such as Alhaji Ibrahim Bello Kogo, the Prince of Kogo Emirate, and the District Head of Sabuwa, along with other traditional leaders.

Photos circulating online depict the chairman in cheerful poses during the festivities, sparking widespread condemnation on social media and among local residents.

This incident comes amid ongoing peace initiatives in Katsina, a state troubled by banditry, kidnappings, and cattle rustling. In September 2025, Sabuwa LGA and neighbouring Dandume facilitated a peace agreement with armed groups during a meeting in Dugun Muazu village. Tanimu participated in these discussions, which aimed to reduce violence but notably did not require bandits to renounce their crimes or surrender their weapons.

Authorities have characterised these talks as part of broader efforts to restore calm in volatile areas such as Jibia, Batsari, and Safana, where similar agreements have yielded mixed results.

A resident of Sabuwa, who spoke anonymously to reporters, expressed deep concerns: “Attending such events without concrete disarmament sends a wrong signal that government officials are legitimising their activities.”

Katsina State officials have yet to issue an official response to the backlash, but this development coincides with increased peace negotiations in other troubled LGAs, such as Kurfi and Matazu.