We’ll Not Negotiate with Bandits – Governor Dikko Radda Clarifies Position on Security

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has reaffirmed his firm stance against negotiating with bandits who have been terrorizing certain areas of the state. The governor emphasized that his administration remains committed to restoring peace and security through proactive measures rather than entering into any form of dialogue or compromise with criminal elements.

The Katsina State Governor made this declaration on Wednesday during the official inauguration of 100 newly recruited members of the Community Watch Corps (C-Watch), an initiative designed to enhance grassroots security across the state. According to Radda, the state government’s top priority is to secure lives and property by strengthening local intelligence networks and empowering security volunteers to collaborate effectively with law enforcement agencies.

Speaking at the event, Governor Radda stated that while his administration is open to achieving peace through lawful and moral means, it will never succumb to the pressure of negotiating with those who have chosen to disrupt the lives of innocent citizens. He noted that engaging with bandits often emboldens them and prolongs the cycle of violence that has plagued rural communities in Katsina and other northern states.

Radda further explained that the recruitment of 100 additional C-Watch officers was part of his broader strategy to complement the efforts of conventional security forces such as the police, army, and civil defense. He praised the existing corps for their dedication and urged the new recruits to discharge their duties with courage, integrity, and a deep sense of patriotism.

He also assured citizens of Katsina that his administration will continue to provide the necessary support, logistics, and training to ensure that the Community Watch Corps operates efficiently and effectively. The governor emphasized that peace and stability can only be achieved when citizens and the government work hand in hand to combat insecurity from the grassroots level.

Radda’s statement comes amid growing concerns over the persistence of bandit attacks in northwestern Nigeria, where villages and farming communities have suffered significant losses. The Katsina State Government, under his leadership, has launched several community-based initiatives to enhance surveillance, intelligence sharing, and rapid response to security threats.

He urged the people of Katsina to remain vigilant, support security operations, and avoid giving in to fear or misinformation. Radda reiterated that the fight against insecurity is a collective effort that requires the active participation of every citizen to make Katsina State safe for all.

For context, Katsina State has been one of the states severely affected by banditry and related crimes. However, recent efforts by the government to bolster local defense structures are gradually showing positive results, with reduced attacks in some regions.

Governor Dikko Radda’s administration continues to prioritize rural security and youth empowerment programs aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as unemployment and poverty. His firm stance against negotiation with bandits reflects a commitment to upholding justice and ensuring lasting peace in the state.