Kaduna Governor Receives Repentant Bandits, Reopens Market After 10-Year Closure

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has taken a significant step towards addressing the state’s security challenges by receiving the first set of repentant bandits in Birnin-Gwari. The governor also reopened the cattle market, which had been closed for about 10 years due to insecurity in the area.

The development is a breakthrough in the state government’s efforts to address the security challenges that have plagued the state for years. 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.

Governor Sani 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. “We are committed to ensuring that those who genuinely seek to change are given the opportunity to do so,” he said

The rehabilitation program adheres to international standards of disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration, ensuring that these individuals can return to society as productive citizens. However, 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 will not tolerate any form of violence or criminality. We will take decisive action against anyone who continues to perpetuate violence,” Governor Sani said. He added that the state government was also developing the ‘Kaduna Model,’ a comprehensive framework for sustainable peace and security.

The ‘Kaduna Model’ includes disarmament, demobilization, 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,” Governor Sani explained.

According to the governor, the ‘Kaduna Model’ is a unique approach that considers the specific needs and challenges of the state. “We are committed to finding a lasting solution to the security challenges that have plagued our state for years,” he said.

Governor Sani 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.”
The reopening of the cattle market in Birnin-Gwari is a significant step towards restoring economic activities in the area. The market had been closed for about 10 years due to insecurity, and its reopening is expected to boost economic growth and development in the state.