The governor highlighted that several senior bandit leaders had embraced peace through extensive dialogue and meetings.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has pardoned the first set of "repentant" Boko Haram members, who had been terrorising the region, leading to the closure of the cattle market in Birnin Gwari for about 10 years.
The governor, speaking at the event on Thursday, reaffirmed his commitment to fairness and justice. “I will be fair to everyone, be they farmers, herders and traders, in order to achieve lasting peace and development,” he said.
The governor highlighted that several senior bandit leaders had embraced peace through extensive dialogue and meetings.
“Through numerous meetings and extensive discussions, we have built bridges of trust. Several senior bandit leaders had laid their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers,” he added.
According to him, the repentant bandits are now part of a rehabilitation programme developed by his government in collaboration with the federal government, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.
‘’This programme adheres to international standards of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration, ensuring that these individuals can return to society as productive citizens,’’ he stated.
The governor warned that while his government welcomes those seeking peace, it would act decisively against any continued violence.
“The security, law enforcement and intelligence agencies have already achieved significant results, neutralising bandits’ kingpins, dismantling criminal networks and rescuing kidnapped victims,” he stressed.
He announced the development of a ‘Kaduna Model,’ aimed at creating a sustainable framework for peace and security.
Sani also encouraged dialogue as a foundation for resolving disputes, urging others to lay down their arms.
“To the bandits who have yet to embrace peace, I urge you to reconsider. Enough is enough,” he said.
“The days of kidnapping, cattle rustling, force levies and other criminal activities are over.”
The governor assured support for those willing to change. “Those who genuinely seek to change will find a government ready to support them, protect them and help them rebuild their lives,” he concluded.
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