Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has received the first group of repentant bandits in Birnin Gwari and reopened a cattle market that had been closed for nearly a decade due to insecurity.
Speaking at the event, the governor highlighted his administration’s commitment to fostering peace and ensuring justice for all residents, including farmers, herders, and traders. He revealed that the State Government, in collaboration with federal agencies, had established the Peace Dialogue Group, which has facilitated the disarmament of senior bandit leaders and their followers.
“These individuals are now part of a rehabilitation programme aligned with international standards for disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration. The goal is to reintegrate them into society as productive citizens,” Sani said.
The governor emphasized the “carrot-and-stick” approach to peacebuilding, warning that while peace would be welcomed, violence would be met with decisive action. Security forces have already achieved significant progress in neutralizing bandit kingpins, dismantling criminal networks, and rescuing victims.
Governor Sani introduced the “Kaduna Model,” a comprehensive peace framework combining disarmament, rural development, and conflict resolution to address insecurity’s root causes. He also noted a significant reduction in insecurity and ethno-religious tensions across the state.
“Through strategic communication and inclusive governance, we have earned the trust of our people. Communities from diverse backgrounds are now united in supporting our peacebuilding efforts, fostering greater harmony and understanding,” he added.
