Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has defended his administration’s decision to engage in peace talks with bandits terrorizing parts of the state.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Sani revealed that the move followed appeals from affected communities and traditional leaders, including the Emir of Birnin Gwari, who described the decade-long suffering of his people due to banditry.
“The affected communities pleaded for dialogue to end the violence. I would rather negotiate than lose a single life in Kaduna. If not, I will be held accountable,” Sani said.
He emphasized that no ransom was paid during the negotiations, which involved traditional and religious leaders over six months. The talks recently resulted in the release of 200 abducted persons in Giwa and Birnin Gwari, allowing farming and business activities to resume.
Sani’s approach contrasts sharply with that of his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufa’i, who opposed negotiations with bandits. However, Sani expressed optimism, stating, “The peace we are enjoying now will be sustained.”
