Kano to grant amnesty to 718 repentant thugs

The Kano State Government has announced plans to grant amnesty to 718 repentant thugs profiled under its Safe Corridor initiative, a programme designed to curb political thuggery and youth restiveness in the state.

The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi-Waiya, disclosed this on Wednesday during the programme’s inauguration at the Kano Police Command headquarters. He explained that 718 youths had already been profiled, while 960 more were awaiting police validation before being enrolled.

According to him, the initiative adopts a non-kinetic approach to rehabilitate and reintegrate youths involved in violent activities.

“After profiling by the police and drug testing by the NDLEA, the repentant youths will undergo rehabilitation. Governor Kabir Yusuf has pledged to grant them amnesty so they can be free from past accusations and begin a new life,” Abdullahi-Waiya said.

He added that some beneficiaries would be provided with immediate employment, while others would undergo rehabilitation before reintegration.

Traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and security agencies will also monitor the programme to ensure transparency.

Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu-Bakori, lauded the initiative, describing it as a bold step toward a safer and more harmonious society.

He urged the youths to seize the opportunity, abandon crime, and embrace peace.

Similarly, the Commander-General of Hisbah, Sheikh Aminu Daurawa, encouraged the beneficiaries to act as good ambassadors and provide useful intelligence to security agencies. He hinted that successful participants could also be considered for mass wedding slots.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Buzun Kida pledged an end to thuggery in Kano, affirming their commitment to peace.

The event was attended by representatives of the NSCDC, NDLEA, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders.