Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has entrusted the safety of the state’s residents and their properties to divine protection due to the worsening insecurity in the region.
Addressing the press after a closed-door meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Governor Lawal acknowledged that despite ongoing efforts to improve security, the situation remains challenging.
He said, “We are doing our best to secure the lives and properties of our people, but ultimately, it’s in the hands of God.”
His statement came just hours after armed bandits attacked the Tsafe-Funtua road in Zamfara, resulting in the death of a police officer and the abduction of an expatriate and several travelers, including construction workers. The road remained blocked for hours as the attackers opened fire on vehicles.
Lawal noted that insecurity has plagued Zamfara for over a decade, highlighting that banditry remains a long-standing issue.
“The reality is that insecurity has existed in Zamfara State for the past 12 years, and as a responsible government, we are tackling it head-on,” he stated.
The governor reassured residents that his administration was fully committed to addressing the problem, adding, “We are doing everything we can to protect lives and property. This is an ongoing process, and we will continue until we eradicate banditry in Zamfara and across Nigeria.”
When asked about the specific strategies being employed, Lawal declined to provide details due to security concerns but assured that efforts were being made to tackle the crisis effectively.
“The security situation is not something I can discuss openly, but I can assure you we are doing everything possible to manage it,” he said.
Despite the ongoing challenges, the governor pointed out recent successes, including the elimination of key bandit leaders.
When questioned about when peace might return to the state, Lawal expressed optimism, saying, “I’m praying that even by tomorrow, our people will be able to sleep peacefully. We’re doing all we can, but it’s ultimately in the hands of God.”
On the political front, the governor addressed the internal crisis within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He dismissed concerns over the division within the party, which had recently seen two rival factions trading suspensions of key members.
The Damagum-led faction suspended the National Legal Adviser, Adeyemi Ajibade, and National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, over alleged disloyalty, while the Ajibade faction retaliated by suspending Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu.
Speaking in Hausa, Lawal downplayed the turmoil, emphasizing that all political parties face challenges.
“This is a political issue, and we are working to overcome these challenges. It’s not only about the PDP,” he said. He also rejected claims that the party lacked leadership, stating, “It’s not true. We are fully committed to ensuring the party remains strong.”
In terms of development, Governor Lawal noted his administration’s efforts to empower young girls in Zamfara, noting significant progress in this area. He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing these efforts, ensuring women and girls in the state have access to opportunities for growth and empowerment.