Gov’t assures repentant Bandits of support, protection to rebuild their lives

Gov’t assures repentant Bandits of Support, Protection to rebuild their lives

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has assured repentant bandits that those truly seeking change will find a government committed to supporting, protecting, and helping them rebuild their lives.

Speaking in Birnin Gwari during the reception of the first group of repentant bandits, Governor Sani emphasised his administration’s dedication to fairness and justice for all citizens, whether they are farmers, herders, or traders, as part of efforts to foster lasting peace and development in the state.

The governor also inaugurated a long-awaited cattle market that had been closed for nearly a decade due to security concerns.

He highlighted the state government’s collaboration with federal agencies in forming the Peace Dialogue Group, which has been working tirelessly to engage various stakeholders in the peacebuilding process.

Sanni said: “Through numerous meetings and extensive discussions, we have built bridges of trust. Several senior bandit leaders have laid their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers

“These individuals are being enrolled in a rehabilitation programme designed by Kaduna State Government in partnership with the Federal Government.

“This programme adheres to international standards of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration, ensuring that these individuals can return to society as productive citizens,’’ he said.

“While we welcome those who choose peace, we will not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone who continues to perpetuate violence.

“The security, law enforcement and intelligence agencies have already achieved significant results, neutralising bandit kingpins, dismantling criminal networks and rescuing kidnapped victims.”

Governor Uba Sani announced that the Kaduna State government was developing the ‘Kaduna Model,’ which is a “comprehensive framework for sustainable peace and security.

“This model will include disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration, alongside investments in rural development and conflict resolution. It is a holistic approach that addresses both the symptoms and the root causes of insecurity.

Sani said that his administration has witnessed remarkable progress, adding that “through strategic communication and inclusive governance, we have earned the trust and confidence of our people.

“Insecurity is significantly reducing and ethno-religious tensions and farmer-herder clashes are rapidly becoming issues of the past. Communities from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds are now united in their support for our peacebuilding initiatives, fostering greater harmony and mutual understanding.”

“We have reopened rural markets, strengthened the regulation of vigilante 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.

The Governor said that his administration operated an open door policy and encourages dialogue as the foundation of lasting peace. “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.”