Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has expressed deep concerns over the persistent issue of banditry in the region. During an interview on Channels Television’s “Sunrise Daily” on June 11, 2024, Lawal revealed that certain political adversaries have been negotiating with bandits without his authorization, undermining the state’s efforts to resolve the crisis.
Lawal criticized previous administrations for their negotiations with bandits, arguing that such talks have been ineffective and have only served to enrich the criminals. He also voiced frustration over the lack of proactive measures from federal security agencies, such as the police and the military, in combating banditry.
In response to this perceived indifference, the state established its own security outfit, the Community Protection Guards, in January. The governor emphasized that, despite the governors’ lack of control over federal security forces, Zamfara State remains committed to protecting its citizens.
“We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our people, even if it means creating our own security solutions,” Lawal asserted.
