Zamfara Lawmakers Criticize Governor Over Insecurity, Call for Federal Government Intervention
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| Dauda Lawal |
The Zamfara State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Bashar Gummi, has openly expressed dissatisfaction with Governor Dauda Lawal’s handling of the state’s worsening insecurity. Lawmakers are now urging the Federal Government of Nigeria to take direct control of security operations in the state to protect lives and property.
Lawmakers Decry Rising Banditry
During Tuesday’s plenary, members of the House detailed the devastating impact of armed bandits on rural communities across Zamfara. They criticized the governor for failing to visit affected areas, send delegations, or provide relief to victims’ families.
Bashir Masama, representing Bukkuyum North, commended the Federal Government’s efforts against banditry but lamented that four villages in his constituency — Adabka, Zauma, Gwashi, and others along Mayanchi–Bukkuyum Road — had been severely attacked, forcing residents to flee for safety.
Bashir Zango, member for Bungudu West, described his constituency’s villages — Gidan Bugaje, Zaman Gida, Kukan Nine, and Gidan Dan-inna — as “war zones” where venturing in could mean certain death.
Communities Under Siege
Other lawmakers shared similar accounts:
- Aliyu Kagara (Talata Mafara South), House Minority Leader, listed Morai, Bobbo, Makera, Jangebe, Gwaram, and Ruwan Gizo as the worst-hit areas.
- Ibrahim Bakura (Bakura Constituency) said his people in Damri, Dakko, Kwanar Kalgo, Sama, Sabon Garin Damri, and Sade had suffered fresh attacks, with large numbers of livestock stolen.
- Amiru Keta (Tsafe West) reported daily security threats with minimal state government support.
- Faruk Dosara (Maradun I) accused the governor of abandoning his constituency and even proposed that the House consider impeachment proceedings over alleged negligence.
- Nasiru Maru (Maru North) condemned the alleged beating of internally displaced persons (IDPs) by political thugs after they staged a peaceful protest at the Government House.
Calls for Federal Takeover
The lawmakers unanimously urged the Federal Government to bypass state control in security operations. They claimed Governor Dauda Lawal’s actions — or inactions — were hampering efforts by security agencies to tackle banditry effectively.
They also encouraged citizens to remain law-abiding and provide credible intelligence to law enforcement agencies to help curb criminal activities.
Governor’s Response
Reacting to the allegations, Mustafa Jafaru, Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the governor, said security matters fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal Government as outlined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Jafaru stated:
“It is a misconception to blame Governor Dauda for not ending banditry in Zamfara State. More than 20 states in Nigeria face security challenges, and Zamfara is one of them. If the Federal Government takes over, it would be a welcome development for the rapid progress of our people.”
Insecurity in Zamfara: A Persistent Crisis
Zamfara has long been a flashpoint for banditry and rural violence in Northern Nigeria. Criminal gangs have targeted villages for mass abductions, killings, and cattle rustling, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes.
The Federal Government has, at different times, deployed the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, and Nigeria Police Force in counter-banditry operations. However, local communities and rights groups continue to call for a more coordinated and sustained approach.
For updates on security situations in Nigeria, follow credible sources such as Daily Trust, Premium Times, and the Nigerian Army official website.
