Security measures beyond just firearms are required, according to Governor Uba Sani, in response to El-Rufai's statement on ending insecurity.

In a series of public statements, the current and former governors of Kaduna State have engaged in a debate over the best approach to tackling insecurity in the region. The discussion was sparked by the recent public presentation of "Where I Stand," a book written by the late Sheikh Abubakar Mahmud Gumi.

Governor Uba Sani, the current head of Kaduna State, spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of non-kinetic approaches to security. He highlighted the Kaduna Peace Model, an initiative led by local communities that involves traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders. According to Governor Sani, this model is crucial in addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty, unemployment, and the neglect of rural communities.

However, his views contrast sharply with those of Malam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State. El-Rufai has been vocal in his support for the exclusive use of firearms to tackle insecurity. He has stated that he believes in "killing bandits and reducing them to nothing." This stance is a departure from Governor Sani's emphasis on the Kaduna Peace Model.

El-Rufai's remarks came just days after Governor Sani's public presentation of "Where I Stand." The book, which has been translated into Arabic, was written by the late Sheikh Gumi, a well-respected Islamic scholar and peace advocate.

The debate between the two governors has also touched on allegations of media suppression and ransom payments to bandits. El-Rufai accused the current administration of suppressing media coverage of insecurity and alleged that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) was coordinating ransom payments to bandits. However, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, dismissed these claims, insisting that neither his office nor any arm of government under the current administration had engaged in such activities.

Governor Sani has also pointed out the absence of security personnel in vast stretches of the North West. He argued that this lack of protection pushes people into crime. He called on leaders to take responsibility for protecting their people and stop passing the blame to Abuja.

The Emir of Birnin Gwari and the Sultan of Sokoto are among the traditional leaders and religious authorities who have played a role in initiating the Kaduna Peace Model, as highlighted by Governor Uba Sani. The model, which has restored relative peace in some areas after months of conflict, emphasizes dialogue, reconciliation, and community engagement as key components of a successful security strategy.

The discussion between Governor Sani and El-Rufai serves as a reminder of the complex challenges facing Nigeria's security landscape. As the population grows and security manpower decreases, finding effective and sustainable solutions to insecurity becomes increasingly important. The Kaduna Peace Model, with its focus on non-kinetic approaches, offers a potential path forward, but its success will depend on the commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders.

Security measures beyond just firearms are required, according to Governor Uba Sani, in response to El-Rufai's statement on ending insecurity.