Member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, PhD, OON, has firmly rejected the idea of rehabilitating bandits, terrorists, and other violent criminals responsible for the deaths of innocent Nigerians, stressing that justice and the protection of citizens must remain paramount.
Gagdi made the position known during an interview on Rhythm FM, where he addressed issues relating to insecurity, justice, and the government’s response to criminal activities across the country.
Speaking emphatically, the lawmaker stated that he does not support any policy or initiative that prioritizes the rehabilitation of individuals who have orchestrated killings and inflicted untold hardship on innocent citizens.
“Let me state this unequivocally: I do not support the rehabilitation of bandits, terrorists, or any criminal responsible for taking the lives of innocent people. Justice must always prevail, and the safety of law-abiding citizens should remain our highest priority.”
The federal lawmaker maintained that while efforts aimed at promoting peace and security are important, such measures should never come at the expense of justice for victims and their families.
According to him, individuals who engage in acts of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes must be held accountable under the law, noting that Nigerians deserve a system that protects innocent lives and deters criminality.
Gagdi further emphasized that the security of lives and property remains one of the fundamental responsibilities of government, arguing that sustainable peace can only be achieved when perpetrators of violent crimes face appropriate consequences for their actions.
His remarks come amid ongoing national debates over approaches to tackling insecurity, including discussions around deradicalization, amnesty programmes, and rehabilitation initiatives for repentant criminals. While opinions remain divided on the issue, Gagdi’s position reflects the concerns of many Nigerians who believe that justice for victims should take precedence.
Observers say the comments are likely to resonate with communities that have suffered attacks from bandits and terrorists, particularly in regions that continue to grapple with security challenges.
As Nigeria continues to search for lasting solutions to insecurity, Gagdi insists that any strategy adopted must place the interests, safety, and welfare of innocent citizens above all else.
