No fewer than 50 elders sent to reconcile with bandits have been kidnapped during a peace meeting in Zamfara State, according to local reports.

The elders, who were part of a delegation tasked with negotiating peace between communities and armed groups, were reportedly seized during the meeting. The incident has heightened fears about the worsening insecurity in Zamfara, where banditry and mass abductions have plagued rural communities for years.

Community leaders expressed shock at the development, noting that the elders had gone in good faith to foster dialogue and reconciliation. Security analysts warn that the abduction underscores the risks of engaging armed groups without adequate protection or guarantees.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement, but residents are calling for urgent intervention to secure the release of the abducted elders and restore confidence in peace efforts.