By Milcah Tanimu
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has expressed concern and called for clarification regarding reported negotiations between certain federal agencies and various bandit factions in the state without the knowledge or consent of the state government.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, Governor Lawal criticized the actions of these federal agencies, accusing them of engaging in discussions with the bandits without proper coordination with the state government or relevant security forces.
The governor urgently requested the Federal Government to provide transparency regarding the activities of these agencies. He highlighted the significant disparity between their actions and the state government’s approach, which has primarily focused on a kinetic strategy to combat banditry.
Governor Lawal voiced his concerns in the statement:
“Governor Dauda Lawal wishes to call on the Federal Government to clarify and investigate the actions of some unscrupulous elements sabotaging the ongoing fight against banditry in Zamfara.
“The Zamfara State Government has received reports of how some Federal Government delegation met with different bandit groups in Birnin Magaji, Maradun, Mun haye, Ajah, Bawo, and Bagege.
“Previous administrations in the State failed to achieve positive outcomes in their attempts to engage in dialogue with bandits. We must learn from these past mistakes and adopt a new approach to restore peace in Zamfara.
“The Zamfara State Government has taken a firm stance from the beginning – we will not negotiate with these criminals.
“Ensuring the fight against banditry is a top priority of Zamfara State Government, and we cannot afford to make any compromises in our efforts.”
