Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has said that bandits are “brothers and sisters” during a speech on June 11, 2026. He used this phrasing while pleading with armed groups to lay down their weapons and accept peace.
Governor Radda made these remarks in the Jibia Local Government Area. He was opening a new housing estate built for internally displaced persons (IDPs). The project was a joint effort with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The governor addressed the criminals directly, saying:”To our brothers and sisters in the forests, to those who have taken the path of banditry, kidnapping and violence, hear me clearly today: the doors for dialogue, repentance and reintegration remain open.
Governor Radda clarified that his words come from a local reality. He previously explained on Channels Television that over 90 percent of the bandits are locals, not foreigners. He noted that the communities know their fathers and grandfathers, making them part of the local society. He believes calling on them as family members might encourage them to surrender.
The Katsina government is offering a soft landing for those who surrender.
The plan includes:
Open dialogue and official pardons.
Business support packages to help them start over.
Gifts of cattle and industrial tools.
New housing and financial grants.
The speech has caused a massive debate across Nigeria. Supporters believe that community-led peace initiatives can stop the bloodshed without endless fighting. Critics argue that calling violent criminals “brothers” insults the victims. Many people feel the government should punish the bandits instead of giving them gifts.
