The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has declared his unwavering commitment to bring an end to armed banditry, even if it means risking his own life. This determination was vocalized as he officially inaugurated a community watch corps aimed at supplementing the efforts of conventional security agencies in combating the banditry crisis within the state.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa service on Monday, Governor Radda expressed his readiness to venture into the perilous forests to confront the gun-wielding criminals. He asserted, “I swear, as governor, even at the cost of my life, I will not allow someone to come and harm my people.
According to him, “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.”
Emphasizing that ensuring the security of Katsina State remains the top priority of his administration, Governor Radda elaborated on the establishment of this security outfit: “We have inaugurated, trained, and equipped the volunteers, providing them with cars, motorbikes, and even armored cars.”
Governor Radda further disclosed that the government had adopted the minimum wage system for the corps, assuring that the volunteers would receive appropriate compensation for their dedicated service.
“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,” he noted.
Addressing concerns raised by critics who have suggested that patrols might exacerbate the security situation, Governor Radda rebuffed the claims, deeming them unfounded. He stressed the importance of tackling the banditry crisis decisively and preventing the continued abduction and loss of lives by these criminal elements.
