The Kaduna State Government has said it will not close down schools following a spate of attacks by bandits targeting schools, communities and public institutions in some parts of the state.

Governor Nasir El-Rufai said this after a meeting with traditional Rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders on Tuesday, where the residents also backed El-Rufai’s position not to negotiate with the bandits.

Speaking during the meeting, El-Rufai reiterated the commitment of the government to work closely with all relevant stakeholders on how best to tackle the Security challenges confronting Kaduna state.

Governor El-Rufai said after an assessment of the security situation by the stakeholders, the government has decided that the schools will remain open and better.

El-Rufai said while the government searches for solutions to the security challenges confronting the state, his job as governor is to enforce the law and help to prosecute people who commit offences.

Other issues raised during the meeting are the need for decentralisation of the police force, beefing up security around the schools and above all, taking the fight to the doorsteps of the bandits.