Kaduna Governor Uba Sani’s Bold Move: Negotiating with Bandits
In a bold and unexpected move, the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has recently disclosed the reasons behind his administration’s decision to engage in peace talks with the bandits wreaking havoc in various communities across the state. These bandits have been unleashing terror in areas such as Chikun, Kagarko, Giwa, Kajuru, and Birnin Gwari, in addition to launching attacks on major highways, resulting in numerous casualties, destroyed homes, and devastated farmlands.
Driven by the harrowing pleas of residents severely impacted by the violence, Governor Sani revealed in an interview with BBC Hausa service that the dialogue initiative was prompted by the Emir of Birnin Gwari and other critical stakeholders who called for a resolution to the long-standing crisis of banditry in the region. The Emir shared heartbreaking stories of loss, abduction, and despair that have plagued their communities for over a decade, with no lasting solutions in sight.
After consulting with key figures such as the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Governor Sani took the decisive step to initiate peace talks with the bandits, emphasizing that the ultimate goal was to restore peace in the state, allowing farmers to return to their fields and businesses to thrive once again. He expressed a deep commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of Kaduna residents above all else, stating, “I’d rather negotiate with bandits than bear the weight of a single life lost in Kaduna.”
Addressing concerns about financial transactions with the bandits, Governor Sani reassured the public that no monetary payments were made during the negotiation process. Instead, the peace deal was facilitated with the collaborative efforts of traditional and religious leaders, reflecting a united front in the pursuit of peace for the region.
Despite previous reluctance from his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufa’i, to engage in dialogue with bandits, Governor Sani’s proactive approach has already yielded positive outcomes, with the release of 200 abducted individuals and a noticeable resurgence in farming and business activities. He remains optimistic about the sustainability of the peace initiative, emphasizing that the relative calm currently experienced in Kaduna will be maintained through continued efforts and collective prayers.
As the state navigates this new chapter of negotiation and reconciliation, Governor Sani’s leadership marks a significant departure from past strategies, signaling a fresh approach to addressing security challenges in Kaduna. While the road ahead may be fraught with uncertainties, the commitment to dialogue and peace offers a glimmer of hope for residents yearning for stability and security in their communities.
