Governor Lawal And Governor Matawalle Clash Over Banditry Responsibility In Zamfara

Governor Lawal And Governor Matawalle Clash Over Banditry Responsibility In Zamfara

Naija News reported that Governor Lawal conveyed his stance on Monday through his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Mobilization, Faruk Ahmad, in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State, in response to statements made by the Minister of State for Defense, Muhammad Bello Matawalle…….. CONTINUE READING

The controversy arose after a wanted terrorist leader, Bello Turji, released a video on social media attributing the escalation of banditry in Zamfara and neighboring northwestern states to policies implemented during Matawalle’s administration.

In response to these allegations, Matawalle, the former Governor of Zamfara, dismissed them as unfounded attempts to undermine his reputation. In a statement issued by Ibrahim Dosara, a former commissioner for Information, Matawalle criticized his successor for neglecting the state’s security challenges.

Dosara stated, “It is unfortunate that bandits have besieged all parts of Zamfara, including Gusau, the state capital, which faces daily attacks. I strongly advise the current administration of Dauda Lawal Dare to redirect the significant funds used to tarnish my image towards protecting Zamfara State’s citizens and property.”

In defense of Governor Lawal’s administration, Faruk Ahmad emphasized the progress made in combating banditry, particularly highlighted by recent disclosures from Turji.

Ahmad reiterated Lawal’s firm stance against reconciliation with any bandit leaders and affirmed the government’s commitment to continue taking decisive actions to eradicate banditry. He expressed readiness to collaborate with stakeholders dedicated to liberating Zamfara from this menace.

Ahmad stated, “We are grateful to God that the prayers of Zamfara State residents are being answered. Bandits are now revealing critical information about their sponsors and associates. The proactive measures implemented by the current administration to address insecurity are yielding positive outcomes.”

He further asserted, “I am confident that gradually, the Almighty will validate the present administration. I want to reaffirm our position: we will not engage in reconciliation with any bandit leader. We will persist in our efforts against them. Those willing to surrender should do so, while those who refuse will face confrontation.”

Addressing allegations linking the Zamfara State Government to bandit leaders, Ahmad dismissed them outright, stating, “It is illogical for a government that rejects reconciliation with bandits to have ties with them. Those with connections to bandits are well aware of their affiliations. We are thankful that one of the bandits has begun providing significant revelations.