Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has welcomed the first group of repentant bandits from Birnin-Gwari and reopened the cattle market, which had been closed for nearly a decade due to persistent insecurity.
This marks a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
The Kaduna State Government has been actively working to engage communities and rebuild trust among various stakeholders. Central to this effort is the Peace Dialogue Group, a state-led initiative in partnership with federal agencies. This group has been instrumental in fostering dialogue and encouraging bandit leaders to lay down their arms.
Governor Sani revealed that many senior bandit leaders, along with their followers, have embraced peace and are now enrolled in a rehabilitation program designed by the Kaduna State Government in collaboration with federal authorities. This program adheres to international standards of disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR), aiming to reintegrate the former combatants as productive members of society.
“We are committed to ensuring that those who genuinely seek to change are given the opportunity to do so,” the governor stated. “However, we will not tolerate any form of violence or criminality. We will take decisive action against anyone who continues to perpetuate violence.”
Governor Sani emphasized that the rehabilitation initiative operates on a “carrot and stick” principle. While peace is encouraged and supported, the government remains resolute in its stance against individuals who persist in criminal activities.
In addition to rehabilitation efforts, the state has introduced the ‘Kaduna Model,’ a comprehensive framework for achieving sustainable peace and security. This model combines DDR strategies with investments in rural development and conflict resolution. Governor Sani highlighted that the framework’s holistic approach addresses both the symptoms and root causes of insecurity in the state.
“The ‘Kaduna Model’ is a unique approach tailored to the specific needs and challenges of our state,” he explained. “It represents our commitment to finding a lasting solution to the security challenges that have plagued Kaduna for years.”
Governor Sani also extended a warning to those yet to embrace peace, stating, “Enough is enough. The days of kidnapping, cattle rustling, force levies, and other criminal activities are over. Let us resolve disputes through dialogue, not violence.”
The reopening of the cattle market and the integration of repentant bandits into society have been lauded by stakeholders as a vital step toward peace and economic recovery in the region. These efforts reflect the Kaduna State Government’s determination to transform insecurity into an era of stability and prosperity.
