The Kaduna State Government has received some repentant bandits in Birnin Gwari with conviction that several senior bandit leaders and their followers have laid their arms and embraced peace, and subsequently reopened the cattle market which had been closed for about 10 years due to insecurity
Penpushing reports that Governor Uba Sani received the repentant bandits explaining that his government collaborated with some federal agencies to establish ‘The Peace Dialogue Group’, to engage with stakeholders.
The Governor stated that through numerous meetings and extensive discussions, the authorities have built bridges of trust, emphasizing that number of them had laid their arms and embraced peace, explaining that these individuals are being enrolled in a rehabilitation programme designed by the 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. Through numerous meetings and extensive discussions, we have built bridges of trust’, Sani said
Penpushing further reports that the Governor added that the rehabilitation of the repentant bandits was based on the principle of ‘carrot and stick’, emphasizing that the government will not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone who continues to perpetuate violence.
‘Several senior bandit leaders had laid their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers. While we welcome those who choose peace, we will not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone who continues to perpetuate violence’, he stated.
‘The security, law enforcement and intelligence agencies have already achieved significant results, neutralising bandits’ kingpins, dismantling criminal networks and rescuing kidnapped victims,’’ he emphasised.
Penpushing also reports that the Governor disclosed that his administration is developing what he referred to as 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,’’ he added.
Penpushing reports that Sani added that his administration has made remarkable progress, explaining that ’through strategic communication and inclusive governance, the government has earned the trust and confidence of the 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’, he said.
Penpushing further reports that he pointed out that although his government was making strides in revitalising the rural economy, stating that the effort could not thrive without security, just as he announced re-opening of rural markets.
‘’We have reopened rural markets, strengthened the regulation of vigilance 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,’’ he said.
Penpushing also reports that the Governor explained that his administration operates an open-door policy and encourages dialogue as the foundation of lasting peace, adding that there should be no room for violence.
‘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’, he assured
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