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Insecurity: Northern governors split over dialogue and military solutions

As insecurity continues to rise in Nigeria’s northwestern states, including Kaduna, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Sokoto, state governors are divided on how to address the growing threat of banditry. The varying strategies being adopted—ranging from peace talks to a firm rejection of negotiations—reflect the different philosophies and approaches among northern leaders in tackling these security challenges.

Kaduna: Governor Uba Sani’s peace initiative

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has been an advocate for peace talks with the bandits causing unrest in the region. In a recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service, he explained that the state’s goal was to protect lives and restore peace. He clarified that no payments were made to bandits as part of the peace process.

“We did not offer them any money. Not even one Naira was given to them,” Governor Sani said. “Our priority is to ensure that our people are safe and that there is peace in the state.”

Sani’s initiative has had some success. On November 29, 2024, he received repentant bandits in Birnin Gwari and reopened a cattle market that had been closed for nearly a decade due to insecurity. Several senior bandit leaders and their followers have reportedly surrendered their arms in exchange for peace.

Zamfara: A shift in approach

In Zamfara State, the approach to handling banditry has changed significantly with the leadership transition. Former Governor Bello Matawalle had pursued dialogue with bandits, which led to the release of 26 kidnapped girls. He continued to emphasize the importance of dialogue in curbing the violence.

However, the current governor, Dauda Lawal, has taken a much firmer stance. He has stated that his administration will not negotiate with bandits, expressing concerns that previous talks only emboldened the criminals.

“We still maintain the position that we will not negotiate with terrorists,” Governor Lawal emphasized. “Our administration has been unequivocal in its approach to addressing the security challenges facing our state.”

Comparing the impact of dialogue and violence

Before these peace initiatives, states like Kaduna and Zamfara saw rampant banditry, including mass kidnappings and killings. The Abuja-Kaduna highway, in particular, was infamous for frequent abductions, earning the nickname “the highway of kidnapping.”

Since Governor Sani’s peace talks in Kaduna, reports indicate a reduction in attacks in some areas, hinting that dialogue may have a positive effect. However, the sustainability of these results remains uncertain, as some bandit groups have previously reneged on agreements.

The divide among northern leaders

The division among northern governors shows the complexity of dealing with banditry. While leaders like Governor Uba Sani favor dialogue as a means of achieving peace, others, like Governor Dauda Lawal, reject it entirely. This split highlights the challenges of balancing non-violent conflict resolution with the need for firm action against criminals.

Some critics fear that negotiating with bandits could legitimize their actions and lead to further exploitation, with criminals using talks to gain leverage.

Expert opinion: A balanced approach

In an interview with DAILY POST, Dr. Isma’il Tanko Wudilawa, a retired Joint Task Force (JTF) commander, emphasized that both dialogue and military action can play a role in addressing security issues. He acknowledged the initial success of the Kaduna model but stressed that the government must ensure bandits adhere to their agreements.

“The Kaduna model is commendable,” Wudilawa said. “But the government should ensure the bandits stay true to their word.”

Wudilawa believes that while dialogue is a valuable tool, it must be paired with strong security measures to guarantee long-term peace. He warned that authorities need to carefully balance these approaches to avoid further destabilizing the region.

“The long-term success of these peace deals depends on the sincerity of the bandits and the government’s ability to enforce agreements,” he added. “It remains imperative for authorities to balance dialogue with robust security measures to ensure lasting peace and stability.”

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