Matawalle didn’t call me, says Zamfara Gov

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has said he has not made phone communication with his predecessor, former governor and current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, Lawal dismissed reports that he and Matawalle spoke before the Supreme Court judgment.

“That’s simply untrue. I haven’t seen any calls from him. Perhaps he’s using a different number. He has my number, and I have his. Honestly, I haven’t contacted him, and he hasn’t contacted me either. While we haven’t met yet, I wouldn’t rule out meeting him in the future,” he added.

Highlighting his efforts to tackle insecurity in the state, Lawal expressed confidence in his collaboration with the federal government to combat banditry and terrorism.

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“We maintain a positive relationship with the federal government. Security largely falls outside a governor’s control, as police and military forces lie with the federal government. Unity is crucial, and the federal government has pledged support, which we greatly appreciate. We hope this collaboration continues until the insurgency ends.”

Governor Lawal further emphasized his faith in his election victory and his ongoing commitment to improving the lives of Zamfara residents.

“Throughout the court rulings on the election, I remained calm, knowing that no one can alter what God has decreed. We have faith in our victory,” he added.

He said, “We inherited a decade-long struggle with insecurity. Upon taking office, we vowed to ease the people’s suffering. We actively combat bandits and terrorists, and with God’s grace, we’re seeing progress.