The Kaduna State Government has promised to intensify security efforts to ensure the safety of the citizens.
Governor Uba Sani made the promise on Wednesday at a Reflection meeting on Strategies for Achieving Sustainable Peace and Social Harmony. It was organised by the Kaduna State Peace Commission (KADPECO) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and another sister UN Agencies.
Governor Sani said his government would be deploying modern systems as well as community-based protocols to prevent and detect crime in the state.
He said his administration is determined to break the cycle of impunity.
“All those who want to test the will of government will have themselves to blame. If you break the law, be ready to face the consequences,” the Governor said.
He encouraged inter-ethnic and inter-religious dialogue through the process that can build shared understanding and consensus on contentious issues for the benefit of the state.
Governor Sani further noted that he would give more empowerment to the Kaduna State Peace Commission to strengthen the delivery of its mandate and resolve conflicts.
“This administration shall strengthen the Kaduna State Vigilance Service to complement the efforts of the federal security agencies,” he stated.
The Governor explained further that, under his watch, equity and justice shall reign supreme in the State.
“Wherever you come from or wherever you reside, be assured that development would reach you. You will feel the impact of this government,” he added.
The Executive Vice Chairman, of Kaduna State Peace Commission, Saleh Momale appreciated the government for its support which has reinforced the confidence of the citizens
Momale said the state is confronted with so many issues affecting peace and stability, including contestations over scarce resources, negative exploitation of ethnic and religious differences resulting in periodic ethno-religious upheavals, circulation of fake news and hate speech as well insecurity associated with violent crimes.
He said; ” the state has been relatively peaceful in recent times as a result of peace-building efforts but a key challenge facing the State is the nefarious activities of criminal gangs who are orchestrating varying degrees of violence against citizens.”
He called on the Nigerian and State Governments to devote sufficient financial resources, technology, and human capital to bring these activities to an end.
Momale said that “the Commission is working tirelessly with various stakeholders to prepare a roadmap for sustainable peace and social harmony in the State under the 2023 2027 Strategic Plan.”
He said that the Strategic Plan would serve as the guiding document for peaceful and harmonious relations taking into cognisance that Kaduna State is among the most diverse in terms of ethnic, religious, political, and socio-economic pursuits.
Momale said; “And unless these diversities are adequately understood and positively exploited, they could easily be manipulated to cause social tensions and violent confrontations.
“The long-term goals intended to be achieved include functional institutions with the capacity to effectively mitigate and resolve conflicts, timely reporting and coordinated response to threats of violent and non-violent conflicts as well as amicable mediation and resolution of conflicts leading to harmonious coexistence and appreciation of diversity.”
He said; “One of the key focuses of the strategic plans will be to mobilise for action, parents teachers, youths, religious leaders of all faiths, traditional leaders, political leaders, and government functionaries to imbibe and inculcate the values of respect for diversity.”
He appreciates the UNDP for its support while hoping for more beneficial collaborations with diverse stakeholders in promoting peace, unity, and progressive development in the State and the nation at large.
In his part, the Emir of Zazzau Ahmad Bamale called for constant dialogue while addressing conflict.
He said; “It is important for leaders to use dialogue in addressing issues rather than allowing the use of arms.”
He also assured the commission of the traders continuous support to achieve sustainable peace initiatives in the state
Furthermore, the representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Fredrick Byat, and his Counterpart Jama’atul Nasirul Islam(JNI) Mallam Ibrahim Kufena said the initiative is laudable as it helps in enhancing peaceful co-existence in the state
They also assured the Commission of their total commitment and support toward sustained peace and security in Kaduna state and Nigeria at large.
Representative of the House of Kaduna family, Mall Ahmad Gumi emphasized the need for inclusiveness in achieving peace efforts and dialogue
While calling for more engagement for effective results, he added that inclusiveness is key while allowing room for other plans.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
