Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has defended his administration’s controversial decision to enter into a peace pact with terrorists operating in the state, insisting that the move prioritizes saving lives and ensuring peace.
Speaking in an interview with the BBC Hausa Service on Monday, Sani emphasized that the agreement followed six months of careful negotiations and did not involve any financial payments to the terrorists.
“We did not offer them any money. Not even one naira was given to them,” Sani clarified. “Our priority is to ensure that our people are safe and that there is peace in the state.”
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The peace pact was achieved with the help of traditional rulers and religious leaders who facilitated the delicate discussions over six months. A critical precondition for the agreement was the release of captives held by the terrorists—a condition that was met, resulting in the freedom of about 200 individuals.
For Governor Sani, this demonstrated the sincerity of the terrorists to uphold the agreement and marked the beginning of a new chapter for Kaduna State. “We are already seeing positive changes,” he said. “Business activities are picking up, and farming communities are thriving again.”
While the initiative has brought relief to many in Kaduna, it has also sparked criticism. Some opponents argue that engaging with terrorists sends the wrong message and could undermine long-term security efforts.
Sani, however, stood firm, describing the pact as a necessary step to fulfill his duty as governor. “As a governor, I took an oath to protect the lives and property of our citizens. If entering into a peace pact with terrorists will save even one life, then it is a decision worth taking.”
He stressed that the safety and well-being of the people of Kaduna remain his top priority. “We will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure that this peace pact holds. Peace and stability are non-negotiable for the development of our state,” he said.
