The Katsina State Government has defended its plan to release 70 suspected bandits, describing the move as part of efforts to maintain an ongoing peace initiative with armed groups operating in the state.
Governor Dikko Radda made this known while speaking to journalists, saying the decision was carefully considered within the broader strategy to address insecurity.
According to the governor, the planned release is aimed at sustaining dialogue and confidence-building measures that have helped reduce violence in some parts of the state. He said the peace initiative is focused on encouraging armed groups to abandon criminal activities and embrace non-violent engagement.
Governor Radda explained that the suspects were arrested during different security operations across the state. He noted that not all those in custody were directly involved in serious crimes, adding that their cases had been reviewed by relevant authorities before the decision was reached.
He said the government is adopting a balanced approach that combines military action with non-kinetic measures. According to him, years of armed confrontation alone have not delivered lasting peace, making dialogue and reconciliation necessary components of the security strategy.
The governor stated that the peace initiative has already yielded positive results in some local government areas. He said there has been a noticeable reduction in attacks on rural communities, farmlands, and major roads where engagement with armed groups has been sustained.
Radda emphasized that the release of the suspects should not be interpreted as rewarding criminal behavior. He said the intention is to give individuals who are willing to renounce violence an opportunity to reintegrate into society under strict monitoring.
He added that those to be released would be required to meet specific conditions, including a commitment to stop all forms of criminal activity. According to the governor, security agencies will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure compliance.
The governor acknowledged that the plan has generated criticism from members of the public and civil society groups. He said the concerns were understandable, given the pain and losses suffered by victims of banditry across the state.
Some residents have argued that releasing suspected bandits could undermine justice and embolden criminal elements. Others expressed fears that the move might weaken public confidence in the government’s ability to protect citizens.
Responding to these concerns, Governor Radda said the government has involved traditional rulers and community leaders in the peace process. He explained that local stakeholders play a critical role in ensuring that agreements reached with armed groups are respected.
The governor also said that the initiative is being implemented in coordination with security agencies. He noted that intelligence gathering, patrols, and surveillance would continue, even as dialogue efforts are sustained.
He stressed that the government has not abandoned the use of force against groups that refuse to embrace peace. According to him, military and security operations will continue against any armed group that violates the terms of the peace initiative.
Katsina State has been one of the states most affected by banditry in the North-West region. Over the years, communities have suffered from killings, kidnappings, cattle rustling, and displacement, with farming activities severely disrupted.
The governor said insecurity has had a negative impact on food production and livelihoods, worsening economic conditions in rural areas. He added that restoring peace is essential for economic recovery and development.
Radda said the state government remains committed to protecting lives and property. He noted that all decisions taken under the peace initiative are guided by the need to achieve lasting stability.
He added that the government would continue to review the outcomes of the initiative and make adjustments where necessary. According to him, the approach is flexible and will be shaped by realities on the ground.
The governor urged residents to remain calm and support the government’s efforts to address insecurity. He said lasting peace can only be achieved through cooperation between government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and local communities.
Governor Radda concluded by saying that while the decision to release the suspects may be controversial, dialogue remains an important tool in resolving the complex security challenges facing Katsina State.
