Government Pardons Bandits, Says Terrorists Now Undergoing Rehabilitation
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has pardoned the first group of “repentant” Boko Haram members who had been terrorizing the region, which led to the closure of the cattle market in Birnin Gwari for nearly a decade.
Speaking at the event on Thursday, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to fairness and justice.
“I will be fair to everyone—farmers, herders, and traders—to achieve lasting peace and development,” he stated.
The governor emphasized that several senior bandit leaders had turned to peace through extensive dialogue and meetings.
“Through numerous discussions, we have built bridges of trust. Several senior bandit leaders have laid down their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers,” he added.
According to him, the repentant bandits are now part of a rehabilitation program developed by his government in collaboration with the federal government, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria.
“This program adheres to international standards of disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration, ensuring that these individuals can return to society as productive citizens,” he noted.
The governor warned that while his government welcomes those seeking peace, it will take decisive action against ongoing violence.
“The security, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies have already achieved significant results by neutralizing bandit kingpins, dismantling criminal networks, and rescuing kidnapped victims,” he emphasized.
He announced the development of a ‘Kaduna Model’ aimed at creating a sustainable framework for peace and security.
Sani also advocated for 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 declared.
“The days of kidnapping, cattle rustling, forced 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.
