Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina, said he is prepared to join forces with security operatives in the forest, and root out insecurity plaguing the state at the risk of losing his life.
Radda made known his resolve in an interview he granted BBC Hausa service where he threw lights on raft of measures his administration put in place to stem the tide of insecurity including the law passed to establish arm-bearing security volunteer force.
“The public should be aware that these volunteers were doing this job unpaid and are motivated by a sense of duty to protect their families and communities.
“Some critics claim that the patrols are worsening the security situation, but this assertion is unfounded. Residents of affected areas know what is happening, and it is unacceptable to allow these people (bandits) to continue to kidnap and kill.
“I swear, as governor, even at the cost of my life, I will not allow someone come and harm my people. The problem of banditry has reached a point where we must all unite and put an end to it.
“Those who oppose these measures are likely motivated by the fact that their loved ones are not the ones being killed. Once all necessary preparations are complete, I will also enter the forest,” the governor said.
