By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has cautioned politicians against exploiting security challenges for political gain, warning that such actions put innocent lives at risk.
He issued this warning on Sunday at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna while receiving 58 rescued kidnapping victims, who were handed over by security forces and the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu.
The governor condemned individuals who seek to profit from insecurity, stressing that their actions threaten the peace and stability of the state.
“The merchants of insecurity will not be happy with the release of these innocent souls because they are benefiting from insecurity,” he said.
Sani reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Kaduna residents. He highlighted the success of the Kaduna Peace Model, an initiative that has restored peace to previously volatile areas, particularly Birnin Gwari.
“Through our Kaduna Peace Model, which emphasises a non-kinetic approach, Birnin Gwari, which used to be a ‘no-go area’ for most people, has become peaceful. Bandits have laid down their arms, and markets that were closed for over 10 years have now been reopened,” he stated.
The governor reiterated his resolve to ensure the security of all parts of the state, particularly in Kauru, Kajuru, and Kachia, where sporadic bandit attacks have persisted.
He also dismissed criticisms from his political opponents on social media, asserting that their remarks do not concern him. However, he warned that he would take necessary action against those who spread misinformation and politicise security matters.
“Politicising insecurity is not opposition, and the elites engaging in it on social media do not genuinely care about the masses. They are simply making posts to serve their political interests,” he stated.
Governor Sani further revealed that the 58 rescued victims had undergone 11 days of psychosocial therapy and medical treatment provided by the Kaduna State Government, with one of them still receiving medical attention.
He assured that his administration would support the victims’ reintegration by providing grants to help them rebuild their businesses and farming activities.
“Our priority remains the safety and well-being of the people of Kaduna State. We will continue to take every necessary measure to secure our communities and support those affected by insecurity,” he added.