The Katsina State governor, Dikko Umar Radda, has called on the residents in the state to take up arms against bandits terrorising them
The governor urged the residents not to hide under their beds whenever bandits attack but to rise up against them.
Radda was charging the people to adopt self-defence mechanisms during a town hall meeting tagged: ‘Public Engagement: 2025 Citizens’ Budget Participation Process’, Daura Zone, in a video that has gone viral eliciting bewilderment.
Katsina has witnessed unprecedented bandits and terrorist attacks over the years with over 13 local government areas under the control of the terrorists, according to government officials.
In a video that has gone viral on the internet and social media platforms, Radda, who appeared extremely angry could be heard saying, “It is unfortunate that a few bandits/gunmen would raid and abuse a whole community. Even themselves (bandits), are afraid of death,” he said.
He went on to say, “…of all the terrorists operating in Katsina State, they are barely in possession of 700 rifles.
“Regrettably, three famished and emaciated bandits would hunt down 1,000 people while we look helplessly as some hide beneath their beds,” he lamented.
He then asked, “Members of the clergy are here, and it’s mandatory upon them to pass to the general public Prophet Muhammad (SAW)’s message concerning a robber that comes after your life or wealth. What did God command you to do?”l
“What humiliation! A situation where you stand idly watching while your wife or daughter is being raped? What is the essence of you being alive thereafter? Death is more honourable than some kinds of humiliation,” he said implying there’s every gain after death for the people to confront the bandits.
He added, “They spare any community that they are aware resists their incursions. They don’t dare attack such communities.
“We must raise insurrections and wanton killings. We have to be battle-ready,” he added.
He pointed out that, “Anytime, five or even 10 of them raid your community and you mobilise like 500 people, before he eliminates five persons, you would have tamed him – whoever he is.
“It is just a façade…they are runaways and afraid of death even more than us. They only want to instil fear and anxiety in us,” the governor added.
