Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, on Thursday, received the first set of repentant bandits in Birnin-Gwari and reopened the cattle market, which had been closed for about 10 years due to insecurity in the area.
The development is a major breakthrough in the state government’s efforts to address the security challenges that have plagued the state for years.
PUNCH reports that the Kaduna State Government has been working tirelessly to engage stakeholders and build trust among the various communities in the state.
According to the governor, his administration has established the Peace Dialogue Group in collaboration with some Federal Government agencies, which has been engaging stakeholders tirelessly to build bridges of trust.
He said several senior bandit leaders had laid down their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers.
These individuals, he said, were being enrolled in a rehabilitation programme designed by the Kaduna State Government in partnership with the Federal Government.
He noted that the programme adhered to international standards of disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration, ensuring that these individuals could return to society as productive citizens.
The governor warned that the rehabilitation of repentant bandits was based on the principle of carrot and stick, adding that while they welcome those who chose peace, they would not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone who continued to perpetuate violence.
“We are committed to ensuring that those who genuinely seek to change are given the opportunity to do so.
“However, we will not tolerate any form of violence or criminality. We will take decisive action against anyone who continues to perpetuate violence,” he said.
He added that the state government was also developing the ‘Kaduna Model,’ a comprehensive framework for sustainable peace and security.
The model, he noted, includes “disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration, alongside investments in rural development and conflict resolution. It’s a holistic approach that addresses both the symptoms and the root causes of insecurity.”
According to Governor Sani, the ‘Kaduna Model’ is a unique approach that takes into account the specific needs and challenges of the state.
He said, “We are committed to finding a lasting solution to the security challenges that have plagued our state for years
“The ‘Kaduna Model’ is a comprehensive framework that addresses the root causes of insecurity and provides a sustainable solution to the problem.”
The governor urged anyone considering taking up arms to instead engage in dialogue, saying, “Let us resolve disputes through dialogue, not violence.”
He also warned bandits who had yet to embrace peace, saying, “Enough is enough. The days of kidnapping, cattle rustling, force levies, and other criminal activities are over.”
