Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has pledged to give bandits willing to give up insurgency houses.
The governor had been an opponent of negotiating with marauding bandits.
Reversing himself on Thursday Radda said the door of negotiation is open to bandits willing to give peace a chance.
The governor announced his newfound position while commissioning and handing over of 152 housing units to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Jibia Local Government Area of the state where he appealed to the criminal elements and promised gifts of parts of the building if they are disposed to peace.
“To our brothers and sisters in the bush and forests, to those who still raise weapons against innocent people, and to those engaged in banditry, kidnapping and violence, hear me clearly today: there is a better path, the doors for dialogue, repentance and reintegration remain open.
“Lay down your arms and return to your families and communities. The same houses, grants and opportunities being provided here today can be available to you tomorrow. Not through fear or bloodshed, but through peace, good governance and honest labour. Choose your children over your weapons. Choose prosperity over destruction. Choose life,” he said.
The houses were constructed under the UNDP Northwest Prevention Facility Project under the support of the government of Germany in partnership with the state government.
