Rabiu Kwankwaso, running mate to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said their administration would engage terrorists and other criminal elements in dialogue as part of efforts to end insecurity if elected in the 2027 presidential election.
He made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television on Monday while outlining how the administration intends to address the country’s security challenges.
Kwankwaso said the proposed approach would complement other security measures aimed at reducing attacks and restoring peace across the country.
According to him, people living in communities affected by violent attacks often know those responsible but are unwilling to provide information to security agencies.
“You see, all these things that are happening today, if you go to localities, those places that these insecurities are happening, I can tell you people know almost everything,” he said.
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He said many residents have lost confidence in reporting such information because of previous experiences with security authorities.
“They know their locations, they know the names of all those involved, and so on and so forth.
“But what is happening now is many of the communities are even afraid to go forward and tell the security agencies or agents of what is actually happening.
“Because many of them have done that in the past, and of course, they did not enjoy it.”
Kwankwaso said restoring public confidence in the security system would be a key priority under the administration.
He also said the government would engage terrorists and other criminal groups in an effort to persuade them to abandon violence while continuing other measures to improve security.
“So we will give people confidence. We will work on the people, even the terrorists, and of course, the criminals themselves, to see what can be done really to discourage their action,” he said.
When asked if he would negotiate with terrorists, Kwankwaso responded, “Of course, we will talk to everybody.”
He added that dialogue would not replace the use of force where military or other security operations become necessary.
“And of course, if there is any issue that will require the services of the military or other security agencies, I can tell you, we will be very happy to do it.”