There is no gainsaying the fact that Katsina State has suffered so much in the hands of bandits for almost a decade. But from recent happenings, it is obvious that the menace may soon be over in the state.
Though several efforts were previously taken by successive governments at the state and federal levels as well as by civil groups to battle insecurity, the fight seems to be far from the reality on the ground. This, no doubt, cast a pall on the government’s objective to provide good governance and quality services to the residents of the state.
It is against this backdrop that the present administration of Governor Umar Dikko Radda has taken a bold step to launch the first Community Watch Corps (CWC) to curtail the long-existing menace of banditry in the state.
The governor, since the inception of his administration, has shown readiness, determination and capacity to tackle insecurity to allow residents of the state to sleep with their eyes closed, boost economic activities and to provide them with the needed dividends of democracy.
Governor Radda began by making wide consultations and meetings with heads of security agencies in the country, international donors and agencies to have a better glimpse of banditry and required approaches to curtail it.
He then interfaced with traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders with a view to reaching an inclusive concept of a community security outfit to complement the conventional security agents.
Certainly, October 10, 2023, would ever remain indelible in the minds of the people of Katsina State, following the graduation and passing out of the first batch of the 1,456 CWC that would be posted to various communities.
The launching of the security outfit and the distribution of 10 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC), 70 Toyota Hilux vans, and 700 motorcycles to serve as operational vehicles, that took place at the Mahammadu Dikko Stadium, attracted attention of many dignitaries within and outside the state.
The immediate-past president, Muhammadu Buhari, governors Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State, Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, Abba Kabir Kano State, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State and Umar Namadi Jigawa State were among dignitaries at the event.
Also present were the former governor of the state, Sa’idu Barda, politicians, government officials, traditional and religious leaders among other prominent sons and daughters of the state.
Giving insight on the constitution of the CWC personnel, the chairman of the corps, Maj Gen Jinedu Sani Bindawa (rtd), described the day as significant in the history of the state, stating that viewing the insecurity situation bedeviling the state and the north-west states, the vision of Governor Radda to set up the corps would for sure be appreciated.
He said the 1,456 corps have undergone two months rigorous training in weapon handling, counter-terrorism, drill, first aid, civil-military relationships and other related lessons, adding that the government has heeded to the advice given that yielded to the personnel well-kited with crash helmets and other related military equipment.
“We have trained them and they are willing to go and assist their communities in mitigating insecurity.
“I want to inform the chairmen of the local government that those civilians you gave to us have been transformed into disciplined, organised and well-behaved individuals”, he said
Similarly, the commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu Danmusa, said the event marked a milestone in the administration, saying mitigation of insecurity that has crippled the social and economic well-being of the state required multidimensional approaches.
He said the governor, in the spirit of good leadership, established the CWC to serve as a game changer in the security architecture of the state, affirming that it would complement the efforts of security operatives in the fight against banditry.
He appreciated the governor for his leading the roles in the fight against insecurity in the northern part of the country, which has been an example and worthy of emulation.
While congratulating the graduates, Governor Radda said the day marks a pivotal milestone not just for the graduating officers, but also for the entire citizens of the state, and by extension, Nigeria, describing the occasion as a symbol of his administration’s commitment to security, peace and community-centred advancement.
He added that the effort was in line with his campaign promises to give security topmost priority, hence investing huge resources to ensure a sustainable fight against banditry.
“This should come as no surprise to anyone as 22 out of 34 local governments in Katsina face severe security challenges.
“Before my inauguration, I set up a committee comprising well-versed senior security personnel who retired from different national security institutions. I also consulted with serving security officers to have a complete understanding of the dynamics of insecurity and the operational security architecture in the state. I can assure you that my entire vision for the future of Katsina state begins with a secure Katsina state”, he said
He expressed his profound respect and admiration for the newest ambassadors of public safety and trust, who passed through rigorous training, unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of peace set ahead of them.
“Your commitment and courage to safeguarding our communities, families, and futures is commendable.
“Katsina, like every other state, faces its unique set of challenges. However, the introduction of the Community Watch Corps illustrates our proactive approach to these challenges. The very essence of this corps lies in community engagement, collaboration, and mutual respect. By leveraging localised knowledge and fostering trust, we are not merely addressing symptoms but targeting the roots of insecurity in our state.
“To our dear officers, as you step out into the field, remember that you now bear a significant responsibility. You are not just protectors but also role models, mediators, and pillars of support. Your uniform is a symbol of hope, assurance, and trustworthiness.
“Wear it with pride, but more importantly, wear it with integrity. Remember, the real essence of your training goes beyond physical readiness or tactical expertise. It is about the development of a character that understands the value of empathy, community cohesion, and cultural respect.
“As you interact with the diverse communities of Katsina, let these principles guide your actions and decisions. You have been saddled with the responsibility of facing a deadly enemy who has no respect for life or peaceful existence.
“These bandits have brought pain upon our mothers, daughters, sons, and fathers and it is our religious obligation to protect them. As your leader, you will have my full support and that of the entire state as we work together to eradicate insecurity,” he said.
The governor also thanked the families and friends of the CWC members, for their unwavering support and patience to embark on the task ahead, reaffirming that “the late nights, the missed occasions, and the constant worry will not be lost on us. Your sacrifices are integral to the success of these officers and the safety of our communities.”
Commending the efforts of government parastatals, and stakeholders for making the day a reality, he said “Your vision, leadership, and investment in the security and wellbeing of Katsina’s residents will undoubtedly bear fruit in the coming years. I urge you all to be dedicated to our future-building project as we ensure that people are not driven into criminal activities due to socioeconomic injustices.
“I would like to invite the governors present here today and all those in our region to embrace this community-driven approach to tackling insecurity. We must cooperate by sharing information, ideas, and resources to stamp out banditry and all forms of insecurity in the region.
“We must also work as a unit with the Federal Government to ensure that a comprehensive approach is applied to tackling insecurity.
“ I have recently met with the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Air Staff, Inspector General of Police, National Security Adviser and many leaders of our security apparatus resident in Katsina State.
“On behalf of the people of Katsina State, I extend our profound gratitude for your efforts towards ensuring peace and security in the state and country. I call upon you to continue to provide support by working closely with our CWC towards achieving a common goal. We have witnessed the success of such collaboration in Borno State.”
He reiterated that the success of the corps does not rest solely on the officers but on every resident of the state. “Safety is a shared responsibility and we must all contribute towards security by organising to protect our people at the community level. We the leaders and those at the frontline of this battle will need your encouragement more than your criticism.
“The various vigilante groups that exist in the state should also cooperate with the CWC as we seek to expand our support to all informal security organisations. Congratulations once again to our graduating officers. May you always stand tall, stand proud, and stand together for the betterment of our beloved Katsina.”
