Zamfara Governor Emphasizes Reliance on Divine Intervention Amid Ongoing Security Challenges
Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal stated on Friday that while his government is making significant efforts to combat banditry in the state, the ultimate fate of the people lies in the hands of God. Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, Lawal highlighted recent gains made by security forces, including the elimination of several leaders of terrorist groups within the region.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of our citizens. We are doing everything possible, but the situation is ultimately in God’s hands,” the Governor remarked. His comments followed a distressing incident in which armed bandits killed a police officer and abducted an expatriate, along with numerous travelers, including employees from a construction company, on Thursday morning. The assault took place on the frequently trafficked Tsafe-Funtua road, where bandits blocked passage and opened fire on moving vehicles for several hours.
Zamfara State, located in northwest Nigeria, has been grappling with severe security issues primarily stemming from banditry. This includes mass abductions, killings, cattle rustling, and assaults on local communities. The challenges intensified significantly in 2023 and 2024, leading to the displacement of thousands of residents as bandit groups overran various rural settlements. Experts point to a failure of security forces to maintain consistent protection in the affected areas as a key factor in the ongoing crisis.
In response to the escalating violence, the federal government has launched a series of military operations, including aerial and ground offensives aimed at dismantling bandit hideouts. However, these initiatives have produced mixed results, with bandits managing to regroup and mount counterattacks despite some successes achieved by security teams.
Governor Lawal acknowledged the longstanding nature of the insecurity in Zamfara, noting, “This challenge has persisted for the past 12 years. As a responsible government, we are addressing it decisively.” He was cautious about detailing specific strategies employed by his administration, stating, “The security situation is not something I can disclose publicly. All I can confirm is that we are striving to manage the crisis effectively.”
The Governor mentioned some positive outcomes of the ongoing efforts, which included the deaths of key bandit leaders. When questioned about the timeline for restoring peace in Zamfara, Lawal expressed hope for an immediate improvement, saying, “I’m praying that by tomorrow, residents of Zamfara can sleep peacefully. We are doing everything we can, but ultimately, it is in God’s hands.”
Additionally, Lawal conveyed that all state governors are unified in their efforts to maintain solidarity within the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), amid the current turmoil.
Join our Channel...