Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has declared that his administration will not negotiate with criminals perpetuating evil acts in the state.
Governor Radda made this firm stance while hosting the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Joint Task Force Northwest Operation, Major General Ibikunle Ademola Ajose, during a courtesy visit to the Government House, Katsina.
Governor Radda stated that the government can only go into peace deal with the bandits on some laid down conditions to ensure lasting peace, adding that the negotiation can only be successful with the full acceptance and involvement of the concerned members of the communities.
The Governor revealed that a stakeholder engagement committee has been established to ensure community involvement in peace-building initiatives, expressing openness to supporting genuine repentance and reintegration.
“The bandits are our brothers born within us, but choose to be criminal. Those who sincerely surrender and seek to rebuild their lives will find support from our administration,” the Governor gave assurance.
“We are prepared to provide resources for their reintegration and livestock management, enabling them to become productive members of society,” the Governor added.
Governor Radda further reaffirmed Katsina State’s substantial investment in security infrastructure, surpassing many states in the federation.
The Governor pledged continued logistical support to address fuel supply challenges and maintain operational effectiveness.
Governor Radda commended the exceptional leadership of the Division and the Brigade Commander, describing it as exemplary by personally leading operations and demonstrating unwavering dedication.
The Governor emphasized that these efforts, combined with the collaborative operations of the Air Force, Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Civil Defence Corps, and Katsina Community Watch Corps, have yielded significant improvements in the state’s security.
“Our farmers can now cultivate their lands and transport their produce to market,” Governor Radda noted.
“This tangible progress demonstrates the effectiveness of our joint security strategies,” the Governor continued.
Earlier, Major General Ibikunle Ademola Ajose explained that he was in Katsina State as part of his first quarter operational visit to all states under the 8th Division which includes Katsina and to discuss with the State Government, the newly launched Operation Safe Northwest.
“This initiative aims to mobilize communities, enhance security operations and foster sustainable peace,” he explained.
Major General Ajose also noted the Chief of Defense Staff had written to the four states within the Zone on the recent developments, particularly reports of some bandits expressing interest in negotiating peace. “It is important to state categorically that the Nigerian Army does not engage in negotiations with criminals or bandits, we are committed to exploring holistic approaches to address this persistent and wicked challenge,” he said.
The GOC however, expressed appreciation to Governor Radda over the consistent support to security operations in the state. Major General Ajose cited the release of funds for development of a Forward Operating Base (FOB).
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor Malam Faruk Jobe, Chief of Staff, Alhaji AbdulKadir Mamman Nasir, Alh. Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji,Principal Private Secretary to the Governor and some members of the State Executive Council.
