*Hopes it’ll save lives of peoples of the state
*Warns against politicizing the ongoing massacre
*Regrets that some of the bandits are relations of the victims
*Commends security agencies for their efforts so far
Following the unmitigated spate of killings of innocent citizens in Zamfara state by bandits, Governor Abdulaziz Yari on Thursday threw his weights behind the call on President Muhammadu Buhari to declare a state of emergency on the state.
Governor Yari, who returned to Zamfara on Thursday from Saudi Arabia where he was performing the lesser hajj, declared his support for emergency while addressing journalists in Gusau, the state capital.
“I am also in support of the declaration of state of emergency if it will save the lives of people of the state,” Mr Yar said.
He warned politicians against politicising the disturbing security situation in the state.
“We are talking about the lives of our people and this needs the coming together of all, so that the crisis can end.
“If the provisions of my office had allowed me to carry arms against the bandits, l would have done so.
“But, if I am not around, there are capable hands that collaborate with the security team in the fight against the bandits.
“The security men are doing their best.
“But, it is sad to know that some of the people involved in the kidnappings are close relatives or associates of the victims, which is part of the reasons the problem is persisting.
“We must all come together and expose anyone or group that is part of these hoodlums, and we should also pray for Allah’s intervention,” Mr Yari, Chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), said.
The killings prompted protest by hundred of youth in Tsafe town in Tsafe Local Government Area of the state.
The police said on Monday that it arrested 23 persons suspected to be involved in the protest.
