Katsina Governor Ready to Join Fight against Bandits in Forests

Governor Dikko Radda has vowed to end banditry in katsina State, even at the cost of his life.

Radda said he would not allow bandits to continue killing and kidnapping people in the state.

The Governor speaking on the BBC Hausa Service on Monday, said that was why the community watch group was set up and its operations legalized by the state House of Assembly.

According to him, members of the community watch group which is a voluntary group has been trained, provided with vehicles, weapons, including an armored personnel carrier.

He promised to join the volunteer force in forest to fight the bandits when the security arrangements are completed.

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The governor had, on Tuesday, inaugurated the Community Watch Corps to complement efforts of the conventional security agencies in the fight against banditry in the state.

“We have inaugurated, trained, and equipped the volunteers, providing them with cars, motorbikes, and even armoured cars,” the governor said.

Speaking on allowances to the volunteers, the governor said the government has adopted the minimum wage system, and the volunteers will be paid accordingly. “The public should be aware that these volunteers were doing this job unpaid and are motivated by a sense of duty to protect their families and communities.”

“Some critics claim that the patrols are worsening the security situation, but this assertion is unfounded. Residents of affected areas know what is happening, and it is unacceptable to allow these people (bandits) to continue to kidnap and kill,” the governor saying.

While stating that he does not mind if his life depends on it, Radda said he would ensure that no harm will come to his people. Radda said, “I swear, as governor, even at the cost of my life, I will not allow someone come and harm my people. The problem of banditry has reached a point where we must all unite and put an end to it.

“Those who oppose these measures are likely motivated by the fact that their loved ones are not the ones being killed. Once all necessary preparations are complete, I will also enter the forest.”