By Umar Mohammed Gusau
The Zamfara state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for the declaration of a state of emergency in Zamfara to address the ongoing onslaught of bandits. According to a statement issued by APC Spokesman Yusuf Idris, declaring a state of emergency would greatly aid the military’s success in combating bandits.
“The military’s current war against bandits in northwestern states, coordinated by Minister of State for Defence Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s instructions, has started yielding unprecedented results,” the statement said.
The call for emergency rule became necessary due to Governor Dauda Lawal’s nonchalant attitude toward the fight. “We have records showing Governor Lawal sabotaging the ongoing onslaught through media campaigns to distract the federal government’s efforts,” Idris added.
We have records showing Governor Lawal sabotaging the ongoing onslaught through media campaigns to distract the federal government’s efforts
The governor has reportedly never supported military operations in the state, logistically or otherwise, and has instead been confrontational. At one point, the military had to warn him to steer clear of their activities. “Governor Lawal is now using media campaigns and propaganda to distract the operation, jeopardizing the security and lives of innocent Zamfara citizens for his political gain.”
Governor Lawal is now using media campaigns and propaganda to distract the operation, jeopardizing the security and lives of innocent Zamfara citizens for his political gain
The APC believes a state of emergency in Zamfara is highly desirable, allowing the operation to proceed unhindered and security operatives to enter the state freely without hindrance. The statement also alleged that Governor Lawal has been politicizing security issues since taking office.
It’s worth noting that Governor Lawal has emphasized the need for synergy and a multi-dimensional regional approach to tackle insecurity in the North. However, the APC’s call for emergency rule highlights the ongoing concerns about insecurity in Zamfara.
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