In an interview with BBC Hausa service on Saturday, the former governor compared the situation to how former militants in the Niger Delta were handled, suggesting that a similar approach could overcome the issue of banditry.
During his tenure as governor, Yarima highlighted that the only security challenge faced by the state was armed robbery, and it was effectively tackled through the commitment and efforts of security agencies.
He expressed his belief that Nigerian security agencies, with adequate support, possess the capability to handle the security situation in the country, as they have all the necessary resources.
Yarima advised the government to initiate dialogue with the bandits, similar to how they engaged with Niger Delta militants in the past. He believed that many of the bandits are Nigerians who can be convinced to stop their activities if properly approached. However, if dialogue fails, he suggested using force against them.
The former governor also criticised previous dialogues with bandits, stating that promises made to them were not fulfilled.
He attributed poverty and ignorance as driving factors behind people resorting to banditry and stressed the need to address these issues. Yarima proposed that the bandits be empowered sincerely, similar to what was done with the Niger Delta militants.
Yarima lamented that poverty and ignorance contribute to most of the crises and problems in the country. He criticized political leaders who prioritise personal gain over addressing the problems faced by the people.
He appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the new government led by President Bola Tinubu, assuring them that positive changes would be witnessed before the end of his tenure.
The senator commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's decision to reopen the borders, acknowledging that it would alleviate the hardships currently faced by Nigerians.
He believed that addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty and ignorance, is crucial for achieving lasting peace and stability in the country.