In Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani welcomed the first group of remorseful bandits Thursday and reopened the livestock market, which had been shut down for over a decade because of insecurity.
In addition, the governor declared that his administration would treat all state residents equally and fairly, “whether they are farmers, herders, or traders, in order to achieve lasting peace and development.”
He revealed that “The Peace Dialogue Group,” which was formed by the state administration in cooperation with certain federal authorities, has been actively interacting with all parties involved.
Read Also:Diddy Faces Third Bail Denial in Ongoing Sex-Trafficking Case
“We have established trusting relationships through countless meetings and in-depth conversations,” Mr. Sani stated. Along with their followers, some senior bandit commanders had surrendered and accepted peace.
He claims that these people are being enrolled in a rehabilitation program that the state government and the federal government have created together.
“This program ensures that these individuals can return to society as productive citizens by adhering to international standards of disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration,” he continued.
“While we welcome those who choose peace, we will not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone who continues to perpetuate violence,” the governor said, warning that the rehabilitation of the repentant bandits was based on the “carrot and stick” philosophy.
“The security, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies have already achieved significant results, dismantling criminal networks, rescuing kidnapped victims, and neutralizing bandits’ kingpins,” he added.
Mr. Sani said that his government was creating a comprehensive framework for long-term peace and security that he called the “Kaduna Model.”
Along with funding for rural development and conflict settlement, this model will incorporate disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration.
“It is a comprehensive strategy that tackles the underlying causes of insecurity as well as its symptoms,” he continued.
Mr. Sani stated that his administration has made significant strides and that “we have earned the trust and confidence of our people through strategic communication and inclusive governance.”
Ethno-religious tensions and farmer-herder conflicts are quickly disappearing, and insecurity is drastically declining.
“Our peacebuilding efforts are now supported by communities of all ethnic and religious backgrounds, promoting greater harmony and understanding between them.”
Even though his government was making progress in reviving the rural economy, the governor contended that his efforts would be ineffective without security.
“We have reopened rural markets, strengthened the regulation of vigilance groups and proscribed the activities of the Yan Sa Kai.
”These measures are aimed at fostering trust and creating an environment where peace can flourish,” he said.
Mr Sani said that his administration operates an open door policy and encourages dialogue as the foundation of lasting peace.
Read Also: TETFund Puts Academic Staff Foreign Scholarships on Hold
He added: ”My message to anyone considering taking up arms is simple: talk to us instead. Let us resolve disputes through dialogue, not violence.
“To the bandits who have yet to embrace peace, I urge you to reconsider. Enough is enough. The days of kidnapping , cattle rustling, force levies and other criminal activities are over.
”Those who genuinely seek to change will find a government ready to support them, protect them and help them rebuild their lives.”
