‘No negotiation with bandits’ — Katsina governor organises prayer for peace

Dikko Radda, governor of Katsina, says the government will not dialogue with bandits terrorising the state.

Radda spoke on Thursday during a special prayer organised by the government for peace and unity in the state.

He said the state authorities will accept bandits who are willing to repent and be incorporated into society.

He said his office is open to residents, adding that the administration will not disclose the identity of anyone with meaningful information about the activities of criminals causing trouble in the state.

The governor asked residents to collaborate with the government and security agencies with useful information to end banditry in the state.

“Our call to bandits, we are not ready for any dialogue with them, but we are ready to accept those that are willing to repent. But we will not call them or seek dialogue with them,” NAN quoted Radda as saying.

“When you go back to your respective communities, you should also copy from Bakori, Dabai and Kurfi, where they have taken measures to depend on their people.

“The people of these local government areas have been given the security operatives all the necessary support to end the security challenges in their areas.

“Therefore, you should fear Allah and assist us in our effort to bring an end to the security challenges in our state. We are ready to receive advice and suggestions.”

The governor said he had met with stakeholders in the state to discuss the measures to address and root causes of the security issues in Katsina.

“This effort to end the security challenges in the state cannot be achieved without support from all stakeholders,” he added.

“Therefore, we should fear Allah and provide all the necessary information that will assist in bringing to the end this problem.”