We are unwavering in our refusal to negotiate with bandits – Zamfara govt
By IBRAHIM KANOMA, Gusau
The Zamfara State government has denied media report that it was planning to negotiate with bandits in the spirit of reconciliation for restoration of peace in the state.
The denial was made known by Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Nakwada, while reacting to some media reports that the government was striking a deal with bandits to allow mining take place in some newly discovered sites.
Alhaji Nakwada said “the purpose of this press briefing is to address yet another false information in circulation, alleging that the Zamfara State Government gave or is planning to give some notorious bandits and media promoters some huge amount of money under the guise of “reconciliation efforts” from the State Security Trust Fund.”
He said to set the records straight, the purported memo allegedly said to have originated from his office to the Executive Governor is entirely fake and mischievous.
He reiterated that Zamfara State Government under Governor Dauda Lawal had consistently announced its firm stance against negotiating with
the bandit terrorists and still maintained the position that it would not negotiate with terrorists.
Nakwada said the government have implemented strategic measures to combat the menace of banditry, and that the efforts had always been guided by integrity, accountability and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the people.
He said the fabricated document and the baseless claims it contains were not only distracting but also an attempt to erode the trust and confidence that the people of Zamfara have in Governor Lawal’s leadership and efforts to restore peace and order.
“It is essential to address these falsehoods head-on to ensure that our people are not misled by those who wish to destabilise our progress,’ said the SSG.
He said further that the administration remains unwavering in its dedication to safeguarding the lives and properties of people, and “we will spare no effort in ensuring the security and well-being of the people of Zamfara State.”
To achieve this, he said, the administration under the able leadership of Governor Lawal had established the Security Trust Fund to help in mobilizing the necessary resources to strengthen the security architecture and provide the required support to our security forces so it would effectively prosecute the fight against banditry and related crimes across the state.
He urge the public and the media to remain vigilant and not to fall prey to the deceitful tactics employed by those who wish to derail the mission.
