The Governor of Kaduna State, Mr. Uba Sani, has explained the rationale behind his administration’s decision to negotiate with criminal bandits.
Senator Sani said the decision to negotiate with terrorists was made so as to preserve human lives.
Speaking during an interview with the BBC Hausa service on Monday, Governor Sani stressed that while the decision may be controversial, it was better than allowing further loss of lives.
He noted that only the victims’ families can truly comprehend and appreciate the reason behind the peace deal.
Moreover, the Governor’s administration resorted to dialogue amid persistent attacks by bandits on communities, particularly in Chikun, Kagarko, Giwa, Kajuru, and Birnin Gwari local government areas.
These criminal elements have also targeted travelers along major highways, causing widespread loss of lives and destruction of property.
However, Sani assured residents that the government is committed to restoring peace and stability in the state while pursuing other security measures alongside the negotiations.
He said, “The people affected by the violence called for the dialogue.For example, the Emir of Birnin Gwari has come with his subjects, calling for dialogue.
“When I asked his reason, he said ‘our communities have been plagued by the scourge of banditry, resulting in the tragic loss of lives and abduction of our people, for over a decade now, with no lasting solution in sight’.”
The Governor added that following the pleas, he met with critical stakeholders, including the national security adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, before finally deciding to initiate the peace deal.
He further explained that the decision came after the bandits released 200 persons kidnapped in Giwa and Birnin Gwari Local Government Areas of the state.
The Kaduna Governor expressed optimism that the deal would restore peace to the state and enable farmers to return to their farms and businesses to bounce back.
“I’d rather negotiate with bandits than bear the weight of a single life lost in Kaduna. If not, I will be held accountable on the day of resurrection, having promised and sworn an oath,” he said.