- Governor Lawal maintained that security operations across the state have significantly weakened the bandits
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has reiterated that his administration will not engage in negotiations with bandits terrorizing the state.
The governor’s stance came after an exclusive interview he granted to the BBC Hausa Service over the weekend was allegedly misrepresented by some media platforms. In response, his spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, issued a statement on Tuesday clarifying the government’s position.
“The banditry issue has been a significant concern for Zamfara and the entire Northwest for decades,” the statement read. “Governor Lawal made security a priority in his campaign manifesto, and he has remained committed to that promise.”
Idris emphasized that the state government has adopted an all-out offensive strategy against bandits, which has yielded positive results. He also dismissed any claims that the governor had softened his stance on negotiations, insisting that no responsible government would negotiate with criminals from a position of weakness.
“If there is any opportunity for negotiation, the bandits must surrender their weapons and repent unconditionally,” the statement added.
Governor Lawal maintained that security operations across the state have significantly weakened the bandits, restoring peace in many volatile areas. He assured residents that his administration would continue its aggressive strategy to eliminate the threat of banditry in Zamfara.
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