Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal has sworn that he could wipe out banditry, Boko Haram and other criminal elements from the state within two months if he has full control over security agencies operating in the state.
Speaking in a viral video clip that has gone viral, Governor Dauda Lawal said that his greatest obstacle in the fight against insecurity is the fact that security chiefs in the state take instructions solely from Abuja, leaving the state government helpless in decisive moments.
“I swear to Almighty Allah, wherever a bandit leader is located within Zamfara State, I know it. If he moves out, I also know. With my mobile phone, I can show you their exact locations today.
“But because I don’t have the power to give direct orders to security agencies, nothing can be done immediately.”
According to him, Zamfara state has invested heavily in surveillance and intelligence-gathering technologies.
“We have dozens of tracking facilities fixed across the state, which can pinpoint bandits’ movements.
“Sadly, the information often goes to waste because security operatives insist they must get clearance from Abuja before taking action.”
Governor Lawal recalled a particularly painful incident in Shinkafi Local Government Area where bandits struck while security personnel stationed nearby refused to intervene because they had not received approval from higher authorities.
“That day, I shed tears for my people. I saw the problem clearly, but I was powerless.”
The Governor said that despite the lack of direct control, his administration has been unwavering in its support to security outfits.
He said that about two months ago, his government distributed 150 patrol vehicles among the police, army, DSS, and civil defense corps to boost their operations.
He said that his government recruited thousands into the Community Protection Guards (CPG) and engaged over 2,000 local hunters from Borno and Yobe States to complement conventional security forces.
“I am doing all these despite not having authority over security agencies. As chief security officer of Zamfara, I cannot fold my arms when lives are at risk.”
Governor Lawal stressed his willingness to address some of the grievances that may be fueling the conflict.
“If the bandits lack water, I will provide it. If they lack schools, I will build them. If they lack healthcare, I will give it. Whatever they need to live in peace, I am ready to provide.”
The Governor condemned the politicisation of insecurity in the state, saying that those undermining his administration’s efforts are only endangering the state’s survival.
“This fight is not about Dauda Lawal, it is about Zamfara. Politicising banditry is destroying the state.”
He drew attention to the recent bye-election in six wards, during which massive numbers of soldiers and sophisticated war equipment were deployed, wondering why the same level of commitment could not be applied in the fight against terrorists terrorising rural communities.
Governor Lawal appealed to residents of the state to remain patient and cooperative while the government continues to push for lasting peace.
“I will not relent. Though the obstacles are many, we are determined. Ultimately, God will rescue us.”
