The Double Standard In Addressing Banditry In Northern Nigeria 

BY Aminat Akindele

Introduction

The issue of insecurity in Nigeria remains one of the most pressing challenges confronting the nation. While terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and separatist agitations occur in various regions, the approach of the Nigerian government toward handling these crises has been widely criticized as inconsistent and, in many cases, unjust. The most glaring example of this inconsistency is the way bandits in the northern part of Nigeria are treated compared to other groups involved in unrest or violence in other regions.

Banditry and Its Impact on Northern Nigeria

Banditry in the northern part of Nigeria has evolved into a full-scale security nightmare. Thousands have been killed, entire villages razed, and communities displaced. Farmers are unable to access their lands, leading to food insecurity and rising prices nationwide.

According to reports from international human rights organizations, bandits are responsible for mass kidnappings of school children, attacks on motorists, and indiscriminate killings in states such as Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, and Sokoto.

Government’s Response to Bandits Rather than taking a strong military stance, as it has with other groups, successive governments have repeatedly pursued negotiation, amnesty programs, and financial incentives for bandits. In some states, government officials have publicly met with known bandit leaders, offering them cash, housing, and vocational training in exchange for laying down arms. This conciliatory approach, while presented as a strategy for peace, has often emboldened the perpetrators, as many return to criminality shortly after receiving benefits.

Contrast with the Treatment of Other Groups

The government’s treatment of separatist groups in the South-East or protesters in the South-West has been markedly different. Non-violent demonstrations have been met with heavy-handed crackdowns, arbitrary arrests, and prolonged detentions.

The continued incarceration of figures such as Nnamdi Kanu, despite several court orders for his release, highlights what many Nigerians see as a double standard. This disparity raises difficult questions about fairness, justice, and the rule of law in a country that claims to operate as a democracy.

Consequences of This Double Standard

This uneven approach undermines national unity and breeds resentment among marginalized groups. When peaceful agitators are treated as enemies of the state while armed criminals are given financial rewards and protection, it creates an impression that violence is the only language the government understands. This can escalate insecurity, encourage more youths to pick up arms, and erode citizens’ faith in government institutions.

The Way Forward

To restore credibility, the Nigerian government must adopt a uniform policy for addressing all forms of insecurity. This policy should prioritize justice for victims, equitable application of the law, and the strengthening of security institutions. Rehabilitation programs can play a role, but they must be paired with accountability measures to ensure that criminals face consequences for their actions.

Conclusion

The current double standard in dealing with bandits in northern Nigeria poses a grave danger to the country’s unity and security. Until the government treats all forms of criminality with the same seriousness, Nigeria will struggle to achieve lasting peace. Equality before the law must become a guiding principle if the nation is to overcome its deepening security crisis.

* Aminat Omobolanle Akindele is an Odua political activist and a freedom fighter.