In a historic move, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has extended an olive branch to repentant bandits, promising to help them rebuild their lives.
This gesture marks a significant milestone in the state’s quest for lasting peace and development [1).
Governor Sani made this commitment during a ceremony in Birnin Gwari, where he welcomed the first set of repentant bandits and reopened the cattle market.
READ ALSO:
Police Affairs minister inaugurates c’ttee to review dismissal, suspension of cadets
Breaking: Court rejects EFCC’s request to arraign ex-Gov Bello without his lawyers
This market had been closed for nearly a decade due to insecurity.
The Kaduna State Government has established the Peace Dialogue Group, which has been engaging stakeholders tirelessly.
Through numerous meetings and discussions, bridges of trust have been built, leading several senior bandit leaders to lay down their arms and embrace peace.
Repentant bandits are being enrolled in a rehabilitation program designed by the Kaduna State and Federal Governments. This program adheres to international standards of disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration, ensuring they can return to society as productive citizens.
While embracing peace, Governor Sani warned that his administration will take decisive action against those who continue to perpetuate violence. Notably, security agencies have already achieved significant results, neutralizing bandit kingpins, dismantling criminal networks, and rescuing kidnapped victims.
The Kaduna State Government is developing the “Kaduna Model,” a comprehensive framework for sustainable peace and security. This model includes disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration, alongside investments in rural development and conflict resolution.
Governor Sani’s administration has witnessed remarkable progress, earning the trust and confidence of the people. Insecurity is decreasing, and ethno-religious tensions are becoming a thing of the past. Communities from diverse backgrounds are united in their support for peacebuilding initiatives.
The governor urged those considering taking up arms to choose dialogue instead. “Enough is enough,” he said. “The days of kidnapping, cattle rustling, and other criminal activities are over.”