Katsina Governor Radda Extends Dialogue Offer to Bandits

Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has renewed an offer of dialogue and rehabilitation to armed groups, urging those involved in banditry and kidnapping to lay down their weapons and return to their communities. The governor made the appeal on Thursday during the inauguration of 152 housing units and other development projects for internally displaced persons in Jibia Local Government Area.

Speaking at the event, Governor Radda stated that opportunities for repentance and reintegration remain available to those genuinely willing to abandon criminal activities. He directly addressed those operating in the state's forests, telling them there was a better path forward through peace and honest labor. The governor assured that the support being provided to displaced families, including housing and grants, could also be extended to those who choose to surrender.

The housing project, a collaboration between the Katsina State Government, the United Nations Development Programme, and the German government, is intended to support families displaced by years of armed attacks and insecurity. Each beneficiary household will receive a housing unit, essential household items, a bag of rice,...