Kaduna Government Frees Over 500 Kidnapped Victims Through Dialogue with Bandits

The Kaduna State Government has announced the release of more than 500 kidnapped persons through peaceful dialogue with bandits, marking a major breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the state

The initiative, described as the Kaduna Peace Model, was developed in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Kaduna State Peace Commission. It emphasizes non-kinetic measures, dialogue, and community participation instead of force or ransom payments. Commissioner for Information and Communication, Ahmed Maiyaki, disclosed this during a workshop on Peace Journalism, explaining that the approach aims to rebuild trust, promote reconciliation, and reintegrate affected communities into normal life. He said the government has chosen to invest in education, healthcare, and social welfare rather than paying cash to criminal elements Maiyaki noted that under the new peace framework, the state government reopened schools, health facilities, and local markets previously shut down due to insecurity, while also improving road access and agricultural support in rural areas. These steps, he said, have encouraged bandits to embrace dialogue and voluntarily release abducted victims without any monetary exchange. He emphasized that the Kaduna Peace Model represents a shift “from confrontation to conversation,” focusing on addressing the root causes of violence such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of social infrastructure. According to him, the government is committed to rebuilding trust and restoring livelihoods in areas affected by conflict. Official records show that Kaduna State has witnessed thousands of abductions and violent attacks in recent years, with hundreds of schools and health centres forced to close. The new peace strategy has already resulted in the restoration of over 500,000 hectares of farmland and the safe return of displaced persons to their communities Maiyaki said the approach has begun yielding tangible results, with many armed groups surrendering their weapons and expressing willingness to live peacefully. He added that the government will continue to work with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community associations to consolidate the progress achieved so far. While residents in some parts of the state still express concern over sporadic attacks, the Kaduna government insists that the peace process will continue, combining dialogue with security operations where necessary. Governor Uba Sani has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a people-centred security strategy, noting that peace cannot be sustained through force alone but through understanding, fairness, and inclusive development.