Governor Lawal of Zamfara Rules Out Bandit Negotiations

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has publicly affirmed that his government will not engage in any negotiations with criminal bandit groups. Instead, his administration is committed to continuous military campaigns until these criminals either surrender or are brought to justice. This strong declaration was conveyed by his Chief of Staff, Mukhtar Musa, during the official opening of the Association of Zamfara State Indigenes Residing in Kaduna secretariat on Sunday, an event that also included the distribution of relief materials to needy members in Kaduna.

Mr. Musa emphasized the Lawal administration's unwavering dedication to eradicating insecurity across Zamfara by fostering ongoing partnerships with various security outfits. He highlighted the government's pledge to supply essential logistics, equipment, ammunition, and other necessary operational backing to security personnel engaged in combating criminal elements. Reiterating the governor's firm stance, Musa stated, "The governor will never negotiate with bandits. Those willing to surrender should do so or face the law."

The Chief of Staff further clarified that the offensive against banditry would persist until enduring peace is re-established throughout Zamfara. Musa underscored the vital role of community intelligence in successfully tackling insecurity, calling on residents to report any suspicious activities or movements to security agencies without delay for swift intervention. He also reassured the association members of Governor Lawal's dedication to fostering significant development and ensuring the return of tranquility to the state.

Musa characterized the assembly as significant, symbolizing the unity among Zamfara indigenes residing away from their native state. He lauded the organizers for their success in establishing the association's state secretariat in Kaduna, promising that Governor Lawal would visit the association in due course to solidify relationships. He portrayed the governor as a forward-thinking leader who champions initiatives aimed at promoting cohesion and progress among people from Zamfara. To support the association's endeavors, Musa declared a N5 million donation from the Zamfara State Government.

Earlier in the event, Garba Balarabe, the association's Chairman, hailed the inauguration as a landmark achievement for Zamfara indigenes living in Kaduna. He articulated that the new secretariat would function as a hub for fostering unity, improving coordination, and addressing the welfare needs of its members. Balarabe further mentioned that the association distributed 280 bags of 10kg rice, along with vegetable oil and spaghetti, to its less fortunate members. He also made a plea to the Zamfara State Government for assistance in securing a permanent office space in Kaduna for the association.

Abdulrahman Tumbido, who served as the event's Chairman and is also Zamfara's Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, commended the association for its humanitarian efforts. Tumbido observed that a significant number of Zamfara indigenes had migrated to Kaduna due to the prevailing insecurity in their home state. Nonetheless, he voiced optimism that peace and security would soon be restored to Zamfara.

Alhaji Usman Balarabe, the National President of the Zamfara State Indigenes Association, also addressed the gathering, advocating for enhanced unity among members regardless of their location. He stated the association’s commitment to ongoing support for women, children, and other vulnerable populations, encouraging members to steadfastly uphold the association's goals and initiatives.

Hajiya Aishatu Maradun, an Ex-Officio of the association, in her address, committed to persistent efforts aimed at generating improved opportunities for members. She appealed to the Zamfara State Government to maintain its support for programs designed to bolster the association.

Furthermore, Engineer Garba Abubakar, deputizing for Engineer Abdullahi AbdulKarim Tsafe, officially inaugurated and launched the state secretariat. Abubakar lauded the distribution of food items to vulnerable members as a praiseworthy humanitarian act. He suggested translating the association's constitution into Hausa to improve comprehension among members, noting that the document would serve as a crucial guide for the association's efficient management.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the event saw a significant turnout, including various government officials, esteemed traditional rulers, prominent politicians, respected community leaders, and association members from Kaduna, Abuja, and other regions nationwide.