Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has called on bandits operating in forests across the North-West to lay down their arms and embrace peace, assuring them that the government remains willing to support those who genuinely repent and reintegrate into society.
Insecurity in North-West Nigeria has evolved beyond a security problem into a broader challenge involving livelihoods, climate change, governance, social cohesion and economic opportunities.
For nearly a decade, what began as farmer-herder disputes evolved into widespread banditry, organised crime and the proliferation of small arms.
Speaking on Thursday during the inauguration of 152 mass housing units for the internally displaced persons in Jibia Local Government Area, the governor said peace and prosperity could only be achieved through lawful means and honest labour.
He said, “To those our brothers and sisters in the bush or in the forest, to those who still raise weapons against our own people, to those who have taken to banditry, kidnapping and violence, hear me very well today. There is a better way.
