The governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, declared that if banditry continues in the state, which he called the center of terror the North will not experience lasting peace.
This occurred after he obtained President Bola Tinubu’s approval to implement stringent measures aimed at ending the reign of bandits and kidnappers in his state.
“Zamfara has become the centre of banditry as we speak today, and if nothing is done in Zamfara State, I don’t think we will be able to solve the situation in entire Northern Nigeria,” Lawal asserted when he addressed State House correspondents on Tuesday after closed-door talks with the President at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
Lawal bemoaned the fact that bandits were still having a great time in a number of municipal areas, despite all of his government’s attempts to put an end to criminal activity in the state.
In order to provide the officers the tools they need to take on the present security threats, his administration has asked for an increase in military personnel and supplies.
“There have been several attacks in some of the local government communities. I feel that, as a responsible governor, I should make this known to Mr. President, who is pleased with the discussion we have and we are looking for more military personnel as well as the equipment for them to be able to function effectively and take care of the security situation,” he explained.
Lawal recognized that the kidnapped Kuriga school children and a few other banditry victims had been found in Zamfara State, which had encouraged his government to take more initiative in bringing about change.
“Most of the children kidnapped in Kaduna ended up in Zamfara State. That is not good for us; therefore, we are doing everything to change the narrative, which is one reason I came to see the President today.
“I have informed Mr. President and I have his assurance that something drastic will be done to take care of the situation as soon as possible. As you are aware, we, as governors, don’t have control over the military or the police. It is the responsibility of the Federal Government.
“Therefore, at any point, we need to inform Mr President so that we can get his blessing either to direct them or to do something else to help them take care of that situation,” the Governor explained.
He added that the Zamfara State Government has recently established the State Community Protection Guard, and that they are more suited to work with the military and police since they are more familiar with the area.
“As you rightly pointed out last month, we launched the community protection guard. These are well-trained people who can take care of the security situation.
“Together with the security operatives, they go out on their own on operation; they go together, either the military or the police. Let me say this: these people are respected, and they understand this land better than even the military and the police.
“So, in a way, it’s a collaborative effort. And that’s why I’m here today to get the President’s blessing to do something very drastic,” he affirmed
