No fewer than 35 bandits have voluntarily surrendered their arms in a quiet ceremony (as requested by the bandits), in Minna, the Niger State capital.

Confirming the report on Wednesday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Niger state Governor, Mrs. Mary Noel Berje said, “this is a good development for us, 35 bandits have surrendered and we are still expecting more.”

It will be recalled that, Governor Abubakar Sani Bello had as part of efforts to ensure the bandits laid-down their arms, entered into peace negotiation with the bandits terrorising communities in the state.

The peace deal two weeks ago was part of activities to mark the World Peace Day, and the Governor released 13 bandits who had been in custody as a first step to strengthen the peace efforts.

Mrs. Mary Noel Berje added that the peace deal was parts of the resolutions of the northern governors after it security meeting in Zamfara State recently. (New Telegraph)