The Kebbi State Government has successfully secured the release of 12 residents of Dole-Kaina, Dandi Local Government Area, who were detained in the Republic of Benin for over a year.

The freed residents were formally presented to Governor Nasir Idris during his thank-you visit to Kamba, the headquarters of Dandi Local Government Area.

Alhaji Shafi’u Zauro, Special Adviser on Special Duties, recounted the detainees’ ordeal. He explained that despite legal efforts and representation, their release was only achieved following the governor’s personal intervention during a visit to the Republic of Benin.

“Your Excellency, you mandated us to act on this issue, and while we pursued legal avenues, it was your direct intervention that secured their release,” Zauro said.

In addition to facilitating their freedom, the governor donated N5 million to help the traders rebuild their businesses.

Mallam Yusha’u, speaking on behalf of the released persons, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the governor for ensuring their freedom and reuniting them with their families.

Governor Nasir Idris pointed out his administration’s dedication to improving the lives of Kebbi State residents. He announced upcoming development projects, including free agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilisers, and equipment for irrigation farming, beginning in January 2025.

“Our administration is committed to humanitarian services and infrastructure development. By next year, we will begin the reconstruction of the Koko-Zuru road and other critical projects,” he said.

The governor also launched the construction of the 17-kilometre Kwakkwaba-Bani Zumbu road, valued at N5.4 billion, stating the government’s resolve to enhance connectivity and economic opportunities in the state.

Key political and community stakeholders, including the APC chairman of Dandi Local Government, Lawal Bani Zungu, and several state and federal representatives, commended the Governor’s efforts. They praised his people-focused projects and pledged continued support for his administration.

Governor Nasir Idris reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Kebbi State, dismissing criticisms of his administration’s performance.

“Our achievements will speak for themselves by the time we reach three years in office,” he stated.

Kebbi State secures release of 12 indigenes detained in Benin Republic