Governor Uba Sani Claims Kaduna is Safe Again, Critics Warn of Fragile Peace

Governor Uba Sani has asserted that a new era of hope has emerged in Kaduna’s volatile councils, particularly Birnin Gwari, Giwa, and Kachia, where farming had previously ground to a halt. According to him, bandit incursions and violent clashes had driven thousands away from their farmlands, creating famine fears and food insecurity. The governor stressed that the renewed agricultural activities are not just signs of peace, but also indicators of the resilience of rural communities determined to rebuild their livelihoods.

Uba Sani further explained that farming is critical to Kaduna’s economy, and the return of farmers to their fields marks a symbolic victory against criminal networks. He emphasized that the administration’s investment in local vigilantes, intelligence sharing, and sustained military operations has restored confidence in rural dwellers who were once displaced. Critics, however, argue that isolated attacks still occur, making the governor’s triumph narrative questionable.

Reopening of 162 Schools Sparks Debate

Uba Sani announced that 162 previously shut schools, mainly in rural districts, are now open, giving thousands of children access to education again. He argued that education is the foundation for breaking cycles of poverty and violence, noting that kidnappings of students had forced many parents to withdraw their children for safety reasons.

Uba Sani’s claim, however, has generated skepticism among civil society groups who question whether security guarantees are strong enough to prevent repeat abductions. Parents remain divided—some see reopening as a step forward, while others believe authorities are rushing to project normalcy without addressing root causes. The controversy underscores the lingering fears that insecurity may still haunt the learning environment.

Healthcare Services Revived in 222 Centres

Uba Sani confirmed that 222 primary healthcare centres, many of which were abandoned due to insecurity, have been revitalized. He noted that the reopening of these facilities means rural populations can now access maternal care, immunization, and emergency services without traveling long distances.

Uba Sani highlighted that healthcare revival is part of his administration’s integrated security approach, arguing that well-served communities are less vulnerable to extremist recruitment. Yet health workers in Zango Kataf and Kauru complain of inadequate staffing and equipment, raising concerns that the governor’s announcement may exaggerate the depth of recovery. This tension fuels doubts about whether healthcare expansion is sustainable or political showmanship.

Controversy Over Security Statistics

Uba Sani insisted that violent incidents have dropped drastically across Kaduna, citing government intelligence reports. He described the downward trend as proof that the joint operations between security forces and local vigilante groups are paying off.

Uba Sani’s optimism, however, collides with independent watchdogs who point out that rural killings are often underreported. Some activists argue that while high-profile kidnappings have declined, low-level attacks persist, making the security picture less rosy. The clash of narratives reveals the deep mistrust between official accounts and grassroots realities.

Political Undertones in Security Narratives

Uba Sani positioned his achievements as evidence that his administration is committed to rebuilding trust between government and citizens. He presented Kaduna’s progress as a model for other northern states grappling with similar challenges.

Uba Sani’s framing, however, has stirred political backlash, with opposition voices accusing him of exaggerating gains to score political points ahead of future elections. Some critics argue that the timing of his announcements aligns more with political positioning than genuine transparency. This has fueled suspicion that the security narrative is being weaponized in Kaduna’s volatile political climate.

Kaduna’s Future: Stability or Fragile Peace?

Uba Sani concluded that the gradual return of normalcy in Kaduna is irreversible, promising further investment in security architecture and community empowerment. He called on residents to remain vigilant but optimistic, insisting that the darkest days of terror are behind them.

Uba Sani’s assurance, however, may be tested by the unpredictable nature of banditry and inter-communal strife. Analysts caution that while schools and farms may be reopened, a single major attack could undo much of the confidence that has been painstakingly rebuilt. The lingering question remains whether Kaduna’s peace is genuine stability or merely a fragile calm before another storm.