Senior bandit leaders lay down arms, embrace peace in Kaduna as Gov. Sani receives first batch
Several senior bandit leaders and their foot soldiers have reportedly laid down their arms in Kaduna State.
Receiving them Thursday, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, pledged to ensure fairness and justice for all residents, including farmers, herders, and traders, as part of efforts to foster lasting peace and development in the state.
The governor made this commitment in Birnin Gwari while receiving the first group of the repentant bandits and reopening the cattle market, which had been shut for nearly a decade due to insecurity.
He revealed that the Kaduna State government, in collaboration with federal agencies, had established the Peace Dialogue Group, which has been working tirelessly to engage stakeholders in achieving sustainable peace.
“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.
According to him, 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,” he added.
The governor warned that the rehabilitation of repent bandits is based on the principle of carrot and stick, adding that ‘’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 bandit kingpins, dismantling criminal networks and rescuing kidnapped victims,’’ he further said.
According to the governor, his government is developing what he referred to as the ‘Kaduna Model,’ which is a ‘’comprehensive framework for sustainable peace and security.’’
