During an appearance on Friday’s edition of Channels Television’s Politics Today, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State disclosed why banditry activities and kidnapping persist in his state and Nigeria as a whole.
Radda alleged that some security personnel and government officials are exacerbating the insecurity in the northern region, suggesting that many have transformed banditry into a “business venture.”
Governor Radda emphasized that the issue of banditry has evolved into a lucrative enterprise involving criminals, certain government officials, security personnel, and individuals responsible for their communities’ well-being.
He cited this multifaceted involvement as a significant obstacle to ending banditry in the region.
In recent years, bandits have perpetrated numerous attacks across northern Nigeria, particularly in rural areas, leading to kidnappings and fatalities.
President Bola Tinubu has prioritized addressing this insecurity.
While some attribute the insecurity to political motives, Governor Radda contends that poverty and injustice are the primary drivers.
He highlighted how many youths are lured into banditry with minimal financial incentives.
Regarding efforts by northern governors to address insecurity, Governor Radda clarified their recent trip to the US.
Despite criticism for not holding the meeting in Nigeria, he explained that it was organized by the United States Institute of Peace, providing an opportunity to engage in discussions aimed at finding lasting solutions to regional challenges.
During the symposium in Washington, D.C., ten governors from affected states participated in discussions with various stakeholders. Governor Radda emphasized that the gathering facilitated the exchange of ideas and insights to tackle insecurity effectively.