Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has raised alarming allegations, accusing certain government officials and security personnel of complicity in the perpetuation of banditry, which he claims has evolved into a lucrative “business venture” for some individuals.
During an interview on Friday’s edition of Channels Television’s Politics Today, Governor Radda expressed his concerns, stating, “Now it has turned out to be a business venture. A business venture for the criminals, some people who are in government; and some people who are in security outfits, and some people who are responsible for the day-to-day activities of their people.”
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In recent years, the northern region has been plagued by the activities of criminal gangs commonly referred to as bandits, who have frequently raided rural areas, resulting in numerous abductions and fatalities.
Contrary to the prevailing narrative attributing insecurity to political motives, Governor Radda emphasized poverty and injustice as significant catalysts for the escalating crisis. He debunked claims of political motives behind banditry, asserting that poverty-stricken youths in the north are often lured into joining banditry with as little as N500.
Amidst efforts to address the region’s security challenges, several northern governors embarked on a trip to the United States. Despite facing criticism for holding the meeting abroad instead of within Nigeria, Governor Radda clarified that the meeting was convened at the behest of the United States Institute of Peace.
“The meeting was not at the instance of the selected governors of northern states but it was at the instance of the United States Institute of Peace. They were the people who invited us; they hosted us for the meeting,” Governor Radda explained.
During their visit, the governors engaged in a symposium with the United States Institute of Peace to explore strategies for resolving the security crisis plaguing their region. Governor Radda highlighted the importance of the trip, stating, “Ten governors were in the United States, Washington D.C and we had a symposium with the United States Institute of Peace so that we can bring about ideas that will end insecurity that is worrying our people.”
The symposium provided a platform for the governors to exchange ideas and interact with stakeholders involved in promoting global peace and security, offering fresh insights into combating insecurity within their respective states.
Governor Radda’s allegations underscore the complexity of the security landscape in Nigeria, raising questions about the extent of collusion between criminal elements and elements within the government and security apparatus.
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