The Kaduna state governor, Uba Sani, on Thursday, received the first set of “repentant bandits” in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of the state.
The governor also opened the cattle market in the area, said to have been closed for about 10 years due to insecurity.
This was disclosed in a statement in Kaduna on Thursday evening by Ibraheem Musa, spokesperson of the governor.
Musa said the Kaduna state government, in collaboration with some federal agencies, established “The Peace Dialogue Group”, which has been engaging stakeholders tirelessly.
‘’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”.
The statement said, “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”.
The statement qouted the governor saying that the rehabilitation of repent bandits is 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”.
It added that law enforcement and intelligence agencies had already achieved significant results, neutralising bandit kingpins, dismantling criminal networks and rescuing kidnapped victims.
The statement disclosed that Sani’s administration is developing what is called the “Kaduna Model, a comprehensive framework for sustainable peace and security.’’
The statement explained that, “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”.
It said Sani Sani’s 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 statement quoted the governor.
Kaduna is one of the states’ worst hit by activities of bandits occasioned by raiding of communities, killings, and kidnapping for ransom
