Dikko Radda, Governor of Katsina State, a region heavily impacted by banditry, has levied serious accusations against government officials and security personnel.
In a recent interview on Channels Television, Governor Radda claimed that for some, banditry has morphed into a “business venture”.
“Now it (referring to banditry) has turned into a business venture for the criminals, some people who are in government, some people who are in security outfits, and some people who are responsible for the day-to-day activities of their people,” Radda said in the interview.
Governor Radda made the allegation on Friday, hours after bandits struck in Unguwar Sarkin Noma community in Sabuwa local government area of Katsina, killing no fewer than 24 residents, mostly vigilantes who tried to resist the gunmen’s invasion.
While Governor Radda rejected claims that banditry has political motives, he acknowledged the complex terrain and numerous bandit camps within Katsina, highlighting the challenges security forces face.
Radda also emphasised poverty as a key factor driving youth recruitment into bandit ranks. He claimed that as little as N500 can entice some into this criminal activity.
“With N5,000, N2,000 and N200, you can be able to convince some of these youths to join into this exercise which brings about money,” he said.
Ezinwanne Onwuka, senior staff reporter and columnist with WAP is a Nigerian-based writer and content developer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Her interests include reading, writing, researching and graphic designing.
Latest posts by By Ezinwanne Onwuka (Senior Reporter) (see all)
- DSS Raises Alarm Over Fake Operatives After Sacking 115 Officers - November 5, 2025
- Tinubu Counters CPC Tag, Says Nigeria Protects All Faiths Equally - November 2, 2025
- Trump Labels Nigeria “Country of Particular Concern” Over Christian Persecution - November 1, 2025
previous
100 Days In Office: Kogi Commissioner Eulogizes Gov Ododo Over Achievements
next