In a determined effort to bolster security and address the persistent issue of banditry in Kaduna State, Governor Uba Sani has unveiled a significant recruitment drive.
The governor announced plans to enlist 7,000 individuals into the State Vigilante Service (KADVS), firmly declaring that bandits would soon find themselves with no refuge in the state.
At the commencement ceremony for the training of these 7,000 recruits, held at the Police College Kaduna, Governor Uba Sani emphasized the significance of this move.
He described it as a pivotal step in fulfilling the administration’s commitment to the people of Kaduna State.
“In our administration’s blueprint, we committed to strengthening the manpower and overall operational capacity of KADVS. Since its establishment, KADVS has been working with security agencies to degrade criminal elements,” the Governor stated.
The decision to embark on this recruitment drive stems from the challenge of insufficient personnel to effectively combat bandits and other criminal elements.
The governor explained that the collaboration between local government chairmen, traditional and religious leaders, and security agencies played a crucial role in the thorough screening and selection of these recruits.
He expressed confidence in the newly recruited individuals, emphasizing their commitment to securing local communities.
He started that the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVS) is viewed as a complementary security outfit that will provide vital intelligence due to its deep understanding of the local environment, making it increasingly challenging for bandits to find safe havens.
Addressing the recruits, Governor Uba Sani urged them to approach their training with seriousness and commitment, emphasizing the importance of discipline.
He cautioned against violating citizens’ rights, stating unequivocally that KADVS is established to protect the people and not to infringe upon their rights.
He said that stringent disciplinary measures would be enforced for any member who flouts operational guidelines or the code of conduct.
Meanwhile, Governor Uba Sani expressed sympathy and resolve to bring to justice the perpetrators of the recent tragedy in which Muslim worshippers were killed in a mosque in Ikara Local Government Area.