In a bold and controversial move, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has opened up about his administration’s decision to engage in a peace pact with terrorists, emphasizing that the initiative was driven by an unwavering commitment to saving lives and restoring stability to the state.
Speaking during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Governor Sani defended the six-month-long dialogue process that led to the agreement, noting that his conscience as a leader would not allow him to stand by while innocent lives were lost. “If even one person were to be killed in Kaduna, it’s better for me to have the peace pact. Otherwise, Almighty Allah will hold me accountable because I took an oath,” he stated passionately.
Addressing critics who speculated that financial incentives were involved, the governor categorically denied any payments to the terrorists. “I want to assure you that not even one Naira was given to them,” he stressed. Instead, he credited the success of the negotiations to the involvement of traditional rulers and religious leaders, who played a pivotal role in fostering trust and dialogue between the state government and the groups.
A major breakthrough of the peace pact was the release of approximately 200 hostages previously held by the terrorists. Governor Sani highlighted this as evidence of the sincerity of the agreement and its potential to transform the region. “They released the people to us. Now, business and farming activities are flourishing in our communities. That’s why I am assuring the communities that we will continue to pray and sustain the relief achieved,” he remarked.
The governor expressed optimism about the sustainability of the peace agreement, pointing to visible improvements in local economies and reduced violence. He assured Kaduna residents that his administration remains focused on long-term development and security.
While the peace initiative has drawn praise from some quarters for its life-saving outcomes, it has also sparked criticism and debate. Skeptics argue that engaging with terrorists could embolden criminal groups and undermine the rule of law. Others, however, see it as a pragmatic step in addressing the complex security challenges faced by the state.
Despite the divided opinions, Governor Sani stands firm in his conviction. For him, the pact is not just a strategy but a moral obligation. “My priority is to preserve lives and ensure peace,” he reiterated, urging residents to support the government’s efforts to build a safer and more prosperous Kaduna.
As Kaduna State navigates this delicate path, the peace pact represents a gamble—one that could either serve as a model for conflict resolution or spark further controversy. For now, the focus remains on the lives saved and the hope rekindled in communities long ravaged by violence.
PIONEER NEWS 