Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has categorically denied allegations of paying bandits, stating that his administration has instead focused on supporting victims of insecurity. In a recent interview on Arise Television's Prime Time programme, Sani emphasized that paying bandits would contradict his long-standing advocacy for justice and protection of the poor ¹.
Governor's Stance on Insecurity
Sani highlighted that the insecurity plaguing the North-West region is largely driven by economic factors, unlike the ideologically motivated Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East. He stressed that a kinetic approach alone cannot solve the crisis, and that sustainable solutions must prioritize supporting victims, not perpetrators ².
Support for Victim Communities
In response to criticisms about allegedly paying bandits, Sani pointed out that his administration has built houses for victims of insurgency instead of compensating bandits. This initiative aims to empower and rehabilitate communities affected by violence, rather than perpetuating a cycle of payments that could be seen as ransom ³.
Importance of Community-Driven Initiatives
Governor Sani emphasized the need for community-driven initiatives to address insecurity. He noted that such efforts must be owned and driven by the local communities themselves, rather than being championed by government officials alone. This approach, he believes, is crucial for the success and sustainability of initiatives aimed at resolving conflicts and promoting peace ⁴.
Conclusion
Governor Uba Sani's firm stance against paying bandits and his focus on supporting victims of insecurity reflect his commitment to addressing the root causes of the problem. By prioritizing the needs of victim communities and promoting community-driven initiatives, the Kaduna State government aims to create a more secure and prosperous environment for its citizens.
