Olayomi Koiki
Nigeria’s Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani on Thursday received the first set of what local news outlets called “repentant bandits” in Birnin Gwari, and opened a cattle market, which had been closed for about 10 years due to insecurity.
“I will be fair to everyone, be the farmers, herders and traders, in order to achieve lasting peace and development,” Governor Sani said.
“Through numerous meetings and extensive discussions, we have built bridges of trust. Several senior bandit leaders had laid their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers.”
According to the northwestern state’s governor, the so-called repentant bandits are enrolled in a rehabilitation programme designed by his 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,’’ Sani stated.
He warned that the rehabilitation of the repent bandits was based on the principle of carrot and stick.
“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 bandits’ kingpins, dismantling criminal networks and rescuing kidnapped victims,’’ the governor stressed.
He announced that his government was developing a ‘Kaduna Model,’ a comprehensive framework for sustainable peace and security.
The governor said his administration operates an open-door policy and encourages dialogue as the foundation of lasting peace.
Sani said: “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.”
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