Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, Bashir Dalhatu, has called on the Federal Government to consider combining negotiation with military force in tackling insecurity, saying the dual approach has yielded results in other parts of the country.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show programme on Friday, Dalhatu said an approach similar to the Niger Delta amnesty programme should be explored in northern Nigeria with the bandits

He noted that many bandits lack basic opportunities such as education and exposure to urban life, and urged the government to extend a “hand of friendship” while maintaining strict penalties for criminal acts.

Mr Dalhatu, in an interview with Arise TV on Friday, referred to amnesty granted to Niger Delta militants, advocating the same for bandits.

“I remember very well when there was an amnesty programme in the Niger Delta during those chaotic times. And it has worked perfectly,” Mr Dalhatu said.

He added, “They were given amnesty, they were sent to school, came back and became integrated into the system, and they are usable products and citizens of Nigeria. That aspect can also be looked at in terms of the north.”

Mr Dalhatu stated that the majority of the bandits have never had access to education or to what citizens enjoy in cities.

Dalhatu acknowledged that security forces already combine military operations with occasional negotiations, noting that recent government efforts, backed by public support, have recorded some gains.