Kaduna Community Blames Attacks On Refusal To Negotiate
Residents of Ariko in Kachia area of Kaduna State say the Easter violence that hit their community was linked to their refusal to strike deals with bandits.
The attacks occurred during the holiday period, leaving residents shaken as armed groups targeted the area. Community leaders believe their stance has made them vulnerable.
According to the village head, pressure had come from nearby communities that allegedly reached agreements with the attackers.
He said Ariko rejected all calls to negotiate, choosing to stand against any form of engagement with criminal groups despite rising threats. That decision, he explained, has now turned the community into a repeated target.
He added that the attackers often pass through Ariko to reach neighbouring areas that have reportedly made deals, and in the process carry out assaults on residents.
The leader also raised concerns that some suspects earlier arrested for aiding bandits were later released, weakening local resistance efforts.
The community said it had repeatedly appealed for stronger security presence but had seen little response.
Despite the growing danger, leaders insisted they would not change their position, calling instead for protection and justice as attacks continue to spread across parts of the state.
