By Emmanuel Kwada
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal’s recent public outbursts against his predecessor, Minister of State for Defense Bello Matawalle, have sparked concerns over politicizing security issues in the region. Lawal’s accusations of Matawalle sponsoring banditry lack substantial evidence and undermine efforts to address insecurity.
Matawalle’s tenure saw significant strides in combating insecurity through innovative strategies that encouraged bandits to surrender their weapons. His administration took concrete steps to apprehend and incarcerate criminals and bandits, demonstrating a commitment to restoring peace in the state.
In contrast, Lawal’s decision to release individuals linked to banditry raises serious concerns about his approach to handling security challenges. His continued blame-shifting and unsubstantiated allegations divert attention from critical issues and erode public trust.
Governor Lawal should focus on governance, prioritizing education, healthcare, agriculture, and addressing the people’s pressing needs. Lawal’s administration has yet to yield notable achievements in combating insecurity, suggesting a lack of clear goals and a tendency to politicize issues
Notably, Matawalle led the Service Chiefs in relocating their focus to the North West, resulting in the elimination of notorious bandits leaders Halilu Sububu and Dan Kundu, among others. This progress highlights the need for cooperation and unity in addressing security concerns.
Public Affairs Analyst Dogara Caesar emphasizes that Governor Lawal should focus on governance, prioritizing education, healthcare, agriculture, and addressing the people’s pressing needs. Lawal’s administration has yet to yield notable achievements in combating insecurity, suggesting a lack of clear goals and a tendency to politicize issues.
It remains to be seen how Lawal will address these concerns and work towards restoring peace in Zamfara State and the broader North West region.
