Katsina State Governor, Dr. Dikko Radda, has reiterated that his administration will not negotiate with terrorists who have been killing and abducting hapless residents in parts of the state.
Radda, however, stated that his government would welcome and integrate into society any terrorist who renounces violence and chooses to become a law-abiding citizen.
He made this declaration during a N50 million community empowerment program organized by state House of Assembly member, Hon. Mustapha Yusuf, in Jibia Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, the governor emphasized that his administration would not seek out terrorists in the forests to negotiate a peace deal with them.
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Rather, he said terrorists would have to take the initiative by coming out to renounce their ways, after which the government would consider them and commence the process to enable them to become members of society.
He added, “We will not seek out terrorists in the forest to negotiate. However, if they voluntarily surrender, renounce violence, and choose to become law-abiding citizens, we are open to reintegrating them into society.”
Addressing the forest-dwelling terrorists, Radda reiterated, “If you are ready to surrender and abandon your criminal activities, we are ready to receive you.”
The governor, however, commended local stakeholders, including the Jibia Council Chairman and security agencies, for their ongoing efforts in tackling insecurity and maintaining peace in the area.
He also praised the N50 million worth of food and financial empowerment provided for youths, elderly women, and the less privileged by Hon. Yusuf.
Radda stated that the empowerment scheme aligns with the state government’s ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of vulnerable citizens across the state.
He further highlighted the state’s daily feeding program for Ramadan, which currently supports 72,000 individuals, with projections to feed approximately 2.2 million people before the end of Ramadan.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Yusuf said the program was designed to alleviate the hardship experienced by youths, women, and vulnerable citizens during the month of Ramadan.
