From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani has reopened the Kidandan Market in the Kidandan District of Giwa LGA of Kaduna State.
The market was shut down for the past five years due to insurgency and banditry in the area.
Speaking during the reopening ceremony today (Saturday), Governor Sani said the reopening of the important market marked the beginning of the return of peace and stability to Giwa Local Government.
He explained that peace is an invaluable asset and it is the key to progress and development.
Conflict, according to him, destroys, while peace builds.
He said he was happy that after the milestone recorded in Birnin Gwari, Giwa has followed suit. “Indeed peace is the only way,” he noted.
Governor Sani, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mallam Sani Liman Kila, stressed that his administration committed to this peace initiative and shall honor its commitments.
The Peace Dialogue Group, he added, is working around the clock to ensure that agreements are respected and that this new understanding is sustained for the benefit of the people.
Governor Sain disclosed that the security agencies are on the same page with them and all those who have agreed to lay down their arms will be protected and rehabilitated.
The reopening of Kidandan Market, the Governor observed, will revitalize the economy of the area and create huge opportunities for the people of Giwa LG.
“I implore you to fully re-embrace one another. We are one people. We may have differences, but there are peaceful ways of resolving issues.
“Let us collectively say NO to violence and conflicts. Let us join hands to create a prosperous future for Giwa Local Government.” He said
Commenting on the peaceful atmosphere that now prevails in Giwa LGA, the State Commissioner for Security and Internal Affairs, Dr. James Atung Kanyip, said the State will continue to work to sustain the peace but called for the support of the people.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Peace and Reconciliation Committee, Sheikh Yusuf Musa Asadussunah, said through numerous meetings and extensive discussions, they have built bridges of trust. Several senior bandit leaders had laid their arms and embraced peace, along with their followers
He, however, urged the government to ensure that those still in detention but are innocent should be set free by the security agencies.
Similarly, Alhaji Labi called on the State Governor to continue with the dialogue process and assured they on their sides are working that those still in the kidnapper’s dens are released.
In his welcome remarks, the Chairman of Giwa LGA, Hon. Sani Yakawada, thanks the State Governor, security agencies, and religious and traditional rulers for the restoration of peace in Giwa LGA.
