Radda recants, appeals for dialogue with bandits 

Radda recants, appeals for dialogue with bandits 

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State says the state is willing to go into dialogue with bandits terrorising communities across the state.

According to him, the government’s doors are open for dialogue with bandits willing to repent and be reintegrated into the society.

He however said the government would dialogue with only those who abandon violence and surrender their weapons.

The governor made the appeal during the official commissioning and handing over of 152 housing units to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Jibia Local Government Area of the state,on Thursday.

The houses were constructed under the UNDP Northwest Prevention Facility Project, supported by the government of Germany in partnership with the state government.

The governor urged those still involved in criminal activities to turn a new leaf and return to their families and communities, assuring them that government support and opportunities could also be extended to them if they choose the path of peace as they lay down their weapons.

“To our brothers and sisters in the bush and forests, to those who still raise weapons against innocent people, and to those engaged in banditry, kidnapping and violence, hear me clearly today: there is a better path, the doors for dialogue, repentance and reintegration remain open.”

“Lay down your arms and return to your families and communities. The same houses, grants and opportunities being provided here today can be available to you tomorrow. Not through fear or bloodshed, but through peace, good governance and honest labour. Choose your children over your weapons. Choose prosperity over destruction. Choose life,” he said.

Radda reiterated his administration’s commitment to pursuing lawful and practical measures aimed at ending the persistent insecurity confronting many communities across the state.

He said lasting peace remains essential for the state’s development and pledged to continue supporting initiatives that promote stability, rehabilitation and community recovery.