Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and running mate to Peter Obi, has said an NDC administration would engage terrorists and other criminal groups as part of efforts to address insecurity in Nigeria.
Kwankwaso made the remarks on Monday during an appearance on *Politics Today* on Channels Television.
He said communities affected by violent attacks often have valuable information about those responsible, including their identities and locations. According to him, residents are sometimes reluctant to cooperate with security agencies because of past experiences that have weakened public trust.
"People in these communities know almost everything about what is happening. They know the locations and the names of those involved," he said.
Kwankwaso noted that many residents fear sharing intelligence with security operatives because they believe previous reports did not produce meaningful action or adequate protection.
He said an NDC government would focus on rebuilding confidence between citizens and security institutions while pursuing dialogue with all stakeholders, including those involved in violent activities.
"We will work with the people, even the terrorists and the criminals themselves, to see what can be done to discourage their actions. We will talk with everybody," he said.
He added that security agencies and the military would continue to play their role where necessary.
"If any situation requires the services of the military or other security agencies, we will be ready to deploy them," he said.
Nigeria has faced insurgency and other forms of violent crime since 2009, when Boko Haram began its campaign of attacks in the North-East. In recent years, banditry, kidnappings and armed violence have expanded across several parts of the country.
Kwankwaso's comments align with earlier statements by Peter Obi, who said in June that his administration would be willing to negotiate with bandits and other armed groups if they demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace.
Obi said his government would prioritise national unity and engage individuals and groups willing to abandon violence and contribute to rebuilding the country.
