It’s a bold and frankly sobering move from Governor Dikko Radda. While the “insider threat” theory has been whispered about in security circles for years, having a sitting governor explicitly name it as a primary obstacle shifts the conversation from speculation to a direct administrative challenge.
​Governor Radda’s statement points to a systemic breach in the state’s security architecture. The “moles” are allegedly leaking the timing and location of planned military or police raids. The informants are sharing information on wealthy individuals or vulnerable communities to facilitate kidnappings.
​This isn’t just political rhetoric; it explains the asymmetry of the conflict in Katsina. Despite increased spending on community watch groups and hardware, the “success rate” of security operations has often been undermined by the bandits being one step ahead.
When the people meant to protect the public are suspected of collaborating with the aggressors, it creates a paralysis of trust. Villagers become hesitant to report sightings to the police, fearing the information will loop back to the bandits and result in reprisal attacks.
By making this public, Radda is likely attempting Vetting & Purging, which will serve as a “shot across the bow” for internal collaborators. It signals that surveillance is now turned inward. It provides a clear explanation to the public and the federal government, as to why security remains elusive despite heavy investment.
Since state governors don’t have full control over federal police or the military, this public outcry puts pressure on Abuja to investigate its own ranks within the state.
​There is a thin line here. If these claims aren’t followed by arrests and prosecutions, it can lead to Low morale among honest officers who feel unfairly painted with the same brush.
It can also lead to Increased paranoia within the administration, potentially slowing down urgent decision-making.
