Former Katsina Secretary Calls for Enhanced Security Oversight Amid Vigilante Abuses

Mustapha Inuwa, previously in charge as the Secretary to the Katsina State Government and an influential member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has challenged the state government regarding its perceived failure in maintaining a secure environment. He argues that the current security framework is marred by significant abuses.

Inuwa previously held the position of Commissioner for Education during the administration of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and later resumed the role of Secretary to the State Government (SSG) for eight years under Governor Aminu Masari.

During a peak period of banditry, he became a prominent figure in the state's contentious amnesty initiatives, negotiating peace agreements directly with bandit groups. His attempts earned mixed reactions, with some praising his bravery while others critiqued the eventual failure of the agreements. In 2022, Inuwa left his government position to contest in the APC governorship primary but was defeated by Dikko Rassa, who successfully won the subsequent elections in 2023.

Now representing the opposition as a leading member of the ADC, Inuwa has taken on the role of the Radda administration's most vocal critic. Leveraging his extensive experience and in-depth understanding of the state's security dynamics, he posits that the government's reliance on vigilantes, namely the Community Watch Corps, has only exacerbated the cycle of violence it had intended to curb.

In an exclusive discussion with PREMIUM TIMES, Inuwa asserted that despite increased funding and federal support, the security crisis has intensified, peace agreements have failed, and vigilante groups operate without adequate accountability in various areas.

SECURITY — FEDERAL FAILURE, STATE COMPLICITY

Inuwa identified insecurity as the most pressing issue for Katsina and a considerable part of northern Nigeria. He asserted, "The responsibility for security primarily falls upon the federal government, which oversees the military, police, and other agencies. With genuine commitment, a solution to insecurity could be realized within a few months."

He contended that funding should not be viewed as the main hindrance. Instead, he emphasized that poor political decision-making has perpetuated the ongoing crisis. "This isn't about finances. It's about the will to act. Our security forces are not adequately empowered to take decisive actions, especially in areas where attacks are primarily initiated. They rarely venture deep into forests, preferring the roadside, which does not address the issue effectively." Inuwa highlighted that Katsina State currently enjoys a more substantial revenue influx than during prior administrations, potentially enhancing its capacity for security enhancements.

SECURITY SPENDING — ₦36BN AND ALLEGATIONS OF MISUSE

He alleged that even with unprecedented financial allocations for security, there has been little noticeable progress. Inuwa remarked, "In under two years, this government claimed to have expended N36 billion on security, whereas during our administration, we managed approximately N7 billion across seven years."

The expenditure was confirmed to be N36,865,034,376.76 by Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal-Jobe in April 2025, incorporating funds from both the state and its 34 local governments for various security logistics. It aligns with the allocations in the state's 2025 fiscal plan, which designated over N15 billion for security-related expenses. According to Inuwa, this large-scale expenditure prompts critical questions regarding effectiveness and accountability.

PEACE DEALS — WHAT WORKED, WHAT FAILED

Inuwa defended previous dialogue and amnesty efforts, insisting they offered short-term stability but ultimately failed due to a lack of regional collaboration. He recounted a significant moment on January 15, 2017, when armed groups surrendered over 400 firearms during negotiations with the Katsina State Government. Although this initiative facilitated relative calm for almost two years, it faltered when neighboring states did not participate, allowing recalcitrant groups to continue their attacks.

He criticized the current approach, stating that no meaningful disarmament has taken place. "These individuals now move about with arms in broad daylight, controlling villages, which does not signify peace."

“VIGILANTES WORSE THAN BANDITS”

Inuwa raised alarming accusations against the state-sponsored Community Security Watch, also referred to as Yan Sakai, claiming that they engage in severe violations, including extrajudicial killings. "The actions of some members are, in some cases, more harmful than the bandits themselves," he asserted. He alleged that the vigilantes often resort to violence in trivial disputes unrelated to security and engage in extortion and theft, seizing cattle and destroying personal property.

He also questioned the recruitment practices and training protocols for these vigilante members. "They lack proper training, and many originate from dubious backgrounds," he stated.

DETENTIONS, COURTS, AND CONTRADICTIONS

Regarding the prolonged detention of suspects' relatives, Inuwa acknowledged the situation but attributed it to the judicial system. "Once individuals are brought before the courts, it falls under their jurisdiction to determine outcomes. The government is no longer involved at that stage."

Despite some individuals being reportedly detained for several years, he upheld that judicial processes should address such matters. He refrained from explaining why suspects' relatives were initially detained and why cases remain unresolved for extended periods.

PRISONER RELEASES, SWAP DEALS, AND RENEWED VIOLENCE

Inuwa voiced criticism concerning the state's recent proposal to release bandit suspects in connection with a swap deal for abducted victims, emphasizing that it should not be celebrated as an achievement. He insisted that releasing suspected bandits without enforcing disarmament compromises security, stating, "If you allow them to keep their weapons, you are exacerbating the situation."

In his view, any genuine negotiations must prioritize total disarmament; without it, true peace remains unattainable.

BUDGET PRIORITIES — EDUCATION AND THE ECONOMY

When questioned about his budget priorities, Inuwa underscored the necessity of focusing on education, describing it as crucial for development at all levels. He opined that substantial investment in education is fundamental for Nigeria's growth and socio-economic ascent.

POLITICS, PARTIES, AND 2027

Inuwa addressed critiques regarding his shifts between political factions, arguing that Nigeria's political landscape lacks a solid ideological foundation. He believes many political movements merely serve as electoral platforms and fosters restricted internal democracy. He likened party- switching to a practical necessity when circumstances change unfavorably.

THE NORTHERN QUESTION — NATIONAL OUTLOOK

Inuwa asserted that while northern Nigeria is rich in resources, it suffers from poor leadership and insufficient collaboration among states, which diminishes its potential. He urged for a united front to effectively address shared challenges such as education and security.

CLOSING APPEAL — “CHANGE BEGINS WITH ALL OF US”

Concluding, Inuwa called upon citizens to shoulder the responsibility of governance and societal transformation, emphasizing the need for accountability beyond those in power. He urged for integrity, sincerity, and civic duty as essential components of responsible citizenship.

Katsina Government Responds

PREMIUM TIMES sought a response from the Katsina State government regarding Inuwa's assertions. The administration defended its security strategy under Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, citing positive outcomes, including a 70% reduction in banditry incidents and improved safety of key transportation routes. They highlighted a combined approach of military and dialogue-based solutions and refuted allegations of vigilante group abuses while asserting that oversight and disciplinary mechanisms are in place.