Zamfara Governor Affirms No Dialogue With Bandits

• Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirms his government’s position against negotiating with bandits, citing the adverse effects of such dialogues
• The governor urges leaders to prioritize security over political considerations and encourages religious leaders to maintain honesty and self-discipline

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering stance against engaging in dialogue with bandits in the state. Governor Lawal made this declaration during his appearance as the Guest of Honour at the weekly preaching session organized by the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

This weekly preaching session, a long-standing tradition in Zamfara, provides a platform to emphasize the importance of self-discipline and honesty among religious leaders. In his address, the governor urged leaders from various sectors to maintain truthfulness in their interactions and pray for a peaceful Zamfara State.

A statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, relayed Lawal’s concerns regarding the adverse effects of negotiating with bandits. He pointed out that such negotiations only encourage the criminals, creating an environment of fear and insecurity for law-abiding citizens.

The governor emphasized that past dialogues with these criminals have proven their untrustworthiness. Lawal called for reevaluating the approach and considering more forceful measures to tackle the issue decisively.

Governor Lawal further urged traditional and religious leaders to consistently align with the truth and speak out, regardless of those involved. He also implored political leaders and citizens to prioritize the state’s security over political considerations, stressing that the peace and stability of Zamfara is a non-negotiable priority.

The chairman of Zamfara State Zakat and Waqaf, Sheikh Ahmad Umar Kanoma, presented a lecture on the significance of dialogue, outlining the prerequisites for genuine dialogue in Islam and the conditions under which engagement in dialogue is void.