Governor Lawal Accuses Saboteurs of Sponsoring Banditry in Zamfara

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has raised concerns about individuals sabotaging his administration’s efforts to address the severe security challenges in the state.

Speaking on Channels Television,  Governor Lawal revealed that certain individuals are sponsoring banditry and other criminal activities to undermine his government.

“We have been trying to restore peace and stability in the state, but somebody, somewhere, somehow, has been negotiating with these notorious terrorists,” Governor Lawal stated, expressing his frustration over clandestine negotiations occurring without his knowledge.

When questioned about the identity of those involved in these negotiations, the governor admitted he had some knowledge of the individuals responsible. He expressed his distress over the escalating insecurity, which prompted him to seek an audience with the president to address the issue.

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Despite the presence of Special Forces equipped with the latest technology in Zamfara State, Governor Lawal noted that the problem persists due to restrictions placed on these forces, preventing them from crossing certain areas or boundaries.

Governor Lawal reiterated his stance against peace accords or reconciliation with armed bandits, citing numerous unsuccessful negotiations in the past. “In Zamfara State, there have been numerous negotiations with the bandits, not once, not twice—what has happened?” he questioned, emphasizing that negotiations should be conducted from a position of strength.

Recently, the state police command announced the arrest of several prominent individuals in connection with banditry activities. Among those arrested were an unnamed member of the state House of Assembly, a district head, and a former local government chairman. However, the status of these cases remains unclear at the time of this report.

Governor Lawal’s revelations underscore the complex and challenging security situation in Zamfara, highlighting the need for a robust and coordinated approach to combatting banditry and restoring peace to the state.