Loan Scandal? Zamfara Government Breaks Silence On Alleged N34bn Deal

The Zamfara State Government has refuted claims that Governor Dauda Lawal secured a ₦34 billion loan.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the government clarified that the ₦34 billion figure being circulated refers to debt servicing payments, not fresh borrowing.

“Governor Lawal has not accessed any loan—local or foreign—since taking office,” the statement read.

It further explained that the ₦34 billion was expended solely on interest payments for loans inherited from past administrations.

The statement noted that the 2023 budget, which was drafted and passed before Governor Lawal assumed office, earmarked ₦53.2 billion for debt servicing—of which ₦34 billion went toward interest payments alone.

The government emphasized that this reflects the governor’s dedication to prudent fiscal management and transparent governance.

“The real question should be how the previous loans were spent, especially given the lack of visible development in the state,” Idris said.

He affirmed that the current administration is prioritizing the reduction of Zamfara’s debt load and has not applied for any new loans.

“We stand by our record. Governor Dauda Lawal remains firmly committed to restoring financial credibility in Zamfara State,” the statement concluded.