Bashir Kurfi, a security analyst and Convener of the Katsina Security Community Initiative, has criticised ongoing peace negotiations between government authorities and armed groups in northern Nigeria.

He described the process as a "tragedy" and warning that it could undermine national security.

Speaking on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Kurfi argued that the current approach to negotiating with bandits lacks the structure, accountability and safeguards required for genuine conflict resolution.

He alleged that armed groups often dictate the terms of the meetings, including the venue and security arrangements, while government officials attend unarmed.

According to Kurfi, such an arrangement gives armed groups undue control over the peace process and weakens the government's negotiating position.

He further alleged that a notorious bandit leader known as Jankari attended one such meeting wearing the uniform of a senior police officer he was accused of killing.

He described the incident as deeply disrespectful to Nigeria's security institutions.

Kurfi also questioned the effectiveness of Nigeria's intelligence and security operations, arguing that advances in technology should make it easier to track and apprehend criminal elements.

He expressed concern over what he described as the continued movement of bandits into southern Nigeria, particularly around mining communities.

The security expert alleged that illegal mining sites and remote forest communities have become safe havens for criminal groups.

He claimed that the absence of attacks on some mining operations suggests possible collaboration between criminal elements and those operating in such areas.

He further alleged that some mining communities have become centres for illicit activities, including drug trafficking, prostitution and other criminal enterprises, which he believes help sustain insecurity.

Kurfi urged policymakers to adopt a more comprehensive strategy that addresses the economic, social and structural factors driving insecurity.

He insisted that Nigeria's security challenges cannot be solved through peace agreements alone without tackling the underlying conditions that fuel criminality.