ZAMFARA: Dialogue best option to end banditry, says Matawalle

GOVERNOR Bello Matawalle has restated that dialogue, rather than war, is the best option to end banditry.

The governor said this while asking questions from journalists on Wednesday in Yola.

Matawalle was in Adamawa on an official visit to witness the inauguration of Phase II rural roads projects and distribution of maintenance equipment held at Kuva-Gaya in Hong Local Government Area of the state.

He said, “I have been always saying, the best solution and option to tackle banditry is to seek for dialogue with the bandits.

“If really we want to end this banditry activity, we have to sit on a round table and negotiate.

“Because through dialogue and reconciliation we are able to secure the release of many people who were under the captivity of kidnappers.

“So, the best way out for my colleagues, governors, is for them to subscribe for dialogue.”

He stressed that making a case for dialogue should not be mistaken for defending bandits who are hardened and averse to negotiations with government adding that the carrot and stick approach is what he is advocating.

The governor noted that some bandits that prepared for dialogue, government would sit with them and listen to their grievances, if any.

“But those that refused to take part in dialogue we will fight them. Because, as a governor, my number one priority is to ensure peace and stability, and to ensure people are sleeping with two eyes closed,” Mohammed added.