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By Mercy Dambai

A youth advocacy group, Zamfara Youth for Progress (ZYP), has raised alarm over an alleged plan to stage a politically motivated press conference aimed at discrediting the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. The group described the move as a dangerous distraction from the fight against insecurity in the North.

In a press statement issued on Monday in Gusau, signed by its chairman, Tijjani Musa Tsafe, the group alleged that the planned press briefing is being orchestrated with the support of Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, and warned that the action could destabilize recent gains in security across the region.

“We hereby issue this statement as a clarion call to the youth and citizens of Zamfara, urging them to reject any attempts to destabilize the ongoing fight against insecurity in our region,” the statement read.

The youth group noted that, in recent months, the Northern region has experienced a significant reduction in banditry and violent crimes—a development it credited to the strategic leadership of Minister Matawalle.

Tsafe said the minister’s approach has led to the neutralization of several bandit leaders and the recovery of previously terrorized communities. “It is imperative that we recognize and celebrate these achievements rather than allow ourselves to be drawn into divisive politics that serve only the interests of a few,” he added.

ZYP condemned the alleged planned press conference as “ill-timed and counterproductive,” saying it was being driven by groups with no legitimate claim to represent the youths or people of Zamfara State. “They are hungry for attention and recognition, but their actions threaten to derail the progress we have made in combating insecurity,” the group stated.

The statement further urged all well-meaning citizens to resist attempts to politicize security issues at a time when stability is gradually being restored. “The people of Zamfara deserve leaders who prioritize the welfare of their constituents above personal ambitions,” Tsafe said.

He urged the alleged sponsors of the smear campaign to desist, adding that Minister Matawalle deserves support, not sabotage. “It is crucial for us to allow Minister Matawalle and the federal government to concentrate on their mission of enhancing national security without undue distractions. The stakes are too high, and the consequences of such distractions could be dire for our communities.”

The group described Matawalle as a “beacon of hope” for Northern Nigeria, citing the tangible results of his leadership in the ongoing anti-banditry campaign. “The reduction in banditry and violence is not merely a statistic; it is a testament to the lives saved and the families reunited,” the statement added.

The group concluded by calling on Zamfara residents and Northern citizens at large to unite in support of leaders making real progress in security and governance.

“We must focus our energies on supporting those who are genuinely working to improve our lives rather than engaging in futile political squabbles,” Tsafe said. “Let us stand together in solidarity, championing the cause of peace and security for Zamfara and the North as a whole.”

By Christina Ocholi

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has accused the Zamfara State Government of sponsoring a well-funded smear campaign aimed at discrediting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a press statement signed by the forum’s Chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the group alleged that a staggering sum of about two billion naira has been released to various groups tasked with organizing press conferences and disseminating negative narratives targeted at both the President and the Defence Minister.

The NSCF, a group known for its advocacy for peace and unity in Nigeria, said the alleged campaign is designed to tarnish Matawalle’s reputation and call into question President Tinubu’s judgment in appointing him into the federal cabinet.

“These are orchestrated attacks with the sole aim of undermining a key figure in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity,” the statement read. “Matawalle’s track record in public service is well documented. These recent attempts to damage his image are politically motivated and based on no verifiable facts.”

The group said the alleged plot includes plans to petition the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reopen investigations into Matawalle’s tenure as governor of Zamfara State. It emphasized that these calls lack credible justification and appear to be driven by political vendettas.

“Matawalle has always been committed to the fight against insecurity, especially during his time as Governor of Zamfara,” Comrade Paul stated. “Now, as Defence Minister, he remains focused on national service. These baseless attacks only serve to distract from that mission.”

According to the NSCF, opposition to Matawalle’s appointment stems from local political rivalries within Zamfara. The group accused certain elites of feeling threatened by the minister’s rising national profile and seeking to diminish his influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The timing of these smear campaigns is telling,” the forum noted. “As political interests clash ahead of 2027, some factions are trying to control the narrative by launching coordinated attacks against their perceived opponents.”

The group condemned what it described as the deliberate spread of misinformation, warning that such actions have far-reaching implications beyond personal reputations.

“At a time when Nigeria is battling severe security threats, engaging in divisive and false campaigns is both reckless and dangerous,” the forum said. “Such rhetoric not only targets individuals but undermines national unity and the fight against insecurity.”

The forum stressed that sabotaging efforts at the federal level—especially in the Defence Ministry—could worsen the already dire security situation in Zamfara and other northern states grappling with armed banditry and insurgency.

Comrade Paul called on security agencies, including the police and other intelligence institutions, to investigate those allegedly behind the smear efforts.

“Political blackmail must not be tolerated,” he said. “Those behind these defamatory activities must be exposed and held accountable. Disinformation is a form of political violence, and it must be treated as such.”

Zamfara State has long been one of the epicenters of insecurity in Nigeria, with ongoing conflicts between criminal groups and security forces. The forum said Matawalle’s appointment was widely regarded as a strategic move by President Tinubu to bring in someone with field experience to help coordinate better responses to the crisis.

Despite ongoing political tension, the forum noted that Matawalle has remained focused and undistracted by attacks on his character.

In an earlier statement, the Defence Minister described the campaigns against him as baseless and politically motivated. He reaffirmed his commitment to securing Nigeria and working collaboratively with state governments and local communities.

“My focus remains the safety and protection of all Nigerians,” Matawalle said. “These attempts to derail our national efforts will not succeed.”

The NSCF concluded its statement with a call for unity, urging political actors across the country to set aside self-interest and prioritize the nation’s stability and security.

“The road to lasting peace is paved with collective responsibility,” the forum said. “We must come together—regardless of political affiliation—to face the real enemies of our nation: insecurity, division, and misinformation.”

ENDS

The Kaduna Youths for Peace and Development (KYPD) group has denied reports of the arrest of Nura Usman, a self acclaimed youth activist and advocate for good governance, by the Kaduna government.

According to the group ,Usman was invited by the police to explain a malicious Facebook post, but he evaded arrest and switched off his phone to create a false narrative.

Sahara Reporters claimed Usman was abducted and tortured by security operatives over his Facebook posts criticizing government policies.

But in a reaction, KYPD denies Usman’s arrest and torture, calling the report false and a cheap blackmail.The group claimed Usman posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state.

In a Statement jointly signed by the Chairman,Comrade Musa Lere and Secretary,Comrade Joseph Maigari the group which expressed sadness over
the Sahara Reporters’ story on Kaduna Government Critic, Nura Usman Abducted, Tortured Over Facebook Post As Wife reported is nothing but false.

It stated further, “He was never arrested and still on the run.He is running away from the law. He posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state. He couldn’t substantiate his claim. His invitation by the security operatives has nothing to do with Kaduna State Government as reported.”

Nura Usman had posted on Facebook handle:”Information reaching my desk just now has revealed that some aides of a governor from Kaduna State have met with some selected student leaders of the state-owned university.

“These aides have commissioned the student leaders to hold a press conference and publicly condemn the ongoing strike by lecturers, who are urging the state government to fulfill outstanding demands after multiple unmet promises.

“Sources indicate that the student leaders have received the sum of N20,000 from the aides in question to facilitate this press conference. We shall see”.

On those behind Nura Usman inciting post ,the group averred,” We see him as someone allegedly being sponsored by former Kaduna State Governor,Mal. Nasiru Elrufai against Governor Uba Sani.

However, the Sahara Reporters quoted , a petition dated May 2, 2025,where he stated that ” a law firm alleged that Mr. Usman was abducted on the night of April 30 by heavily armed operatives of Operation Fushin Kada, a joint security task force comprising personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, Police, and other agencies.

“The law firm in the petition claimed the arrest was ordered by powerful officials within the Kaduna State Government, allegedly in retaliation for Facebook posts made by Mr. Usman on April 28 and 29 that criticized certain government policies.

“This is untrue and should be disregard by the public.”it stressed.

The Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria (FGGN) has called on Nigerians to ignore what it described as “sponsored groups” mobilized to discredit the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engineer Mele Kyari.

In a statement made available to journalists, the group said Kyari had served the nation with dedication and patriotism, and therefore did not deserve the wave of attacks being orchestrated against him.

“Nigerians must learn to reward hard work and commitment to service, as is the practice in most developed countries,” the group stated.

The FGGN expressed disappointment that the protesters had failed to acknowledge Kyari’s significant contributions, particularly his efforts to revive the country’s ailing refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna.

Describing Kyari as the most outstanding GCEO in the history of NNPCL, the group dismissed those behind the attacks as “jobless individuals with no vision for the future.”

The statement, signed by its Chairman, Comrade Bala Usman Sani, highlighted some of Kyari’s key achievements during his tenure. It noted that Kyari inherited a struggling NNPC but succeeded in transforming it into a more efficient and credible institution.

“He was recognized as the Outstanding Employer of the Year 2022 by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria,” the statement noted. “He maintained a national strategic fuel reserve that served the country effectively during fuel shortages and worked tirelessly to stem the smuggling of petroleum products across borders.”

The group also credited Kyari with encouraging private investments in refinery development—such as the Dangote Refinery and other modular refinery projects—and for pushing forward the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries.

It added that Kyari played a pivotal role in implementing the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which led to the successful incorporation of NNPC under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).

“Under Kyari, the national oil company recorded significant progress, including increased domestic natural gas consumption, an oil production boost to 1.8 million barrels per day, and the revival of two major refineries,” the statement read.

The group also pointed to the introduction of the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda under Kyari’s leadership, which it said helped address inefficiencies and restore public trust in the national oil firm.

FFGN concluded its statement by calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and not allow “politically motivated distractions” to undermine the achievements of those who have genuinely served the country.

By Samuel David

As political speculations swirl in Zamfara State, the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a strong caution to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning against the possible defection of Governor Dauda Lawal from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the ruling party.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Salihu Suleiman, and circulated to journalists on Wednesday, NAN described any plan to welcome Lawal into the APC as a “strategic misjudgment” that could fracture the party’s stability and weaken its electoral prospects in the North-West state.

According to NAN, Governor Lawal’s rumored shift is not born of ideological alignment but rather a desperate move to escape the intensifying political heat being applied by entrenched APC powerbrokers — specifically, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor and Senator Abdulaziz Yari. Both figures are known to command significant grassroots loyalty and political influence in Zamfara, and have reportedly been working to neutralize Lawal’s 2027 re-election ambitions.

“The political landscape in Zamfara is delicate, and Governor Dauda Lawal’s hold on power is slipping rapidly,” the NAN statement reads. “His anticipated decampment to the APC should not be mistaken for strength or added value to the party.”

The organization stated bluntly that Lawal’s political trajectory has been marred by controversy and a lackluster performance, which it believes makes him an unsuitable ally for the APC.

“His inclusion in the APC would be an uncalculated gamble,” NAN stated. “Rather than adding value, Lawal would become a burden — creating internal conflict, risking party unity, and diluting the APC’s core message of discipline, vision, and northern unity.”

NAN contends that the APC must be especially wary in Zamfara, a state long plagued by banditry, instability, and a rapidly shifting voter base. “This is not the time for sentimental or reactionary politics. APC needs stability and must build on the solid structures already in place through committed, tested loyalists,” the statement added.

The group also warned that Lawal’s defection could send the wrong signals to party supporters across the region — particularly those who have made sacrifices to build the party’s profile in the North.

By Musa Luther

The Arewa Youths Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a blessing to the North and the nation as a whole, applauding his transformative strides since assuming office.

The group stated that Wike’s leadership has brought renewed hope to residents of Abuja through his firm handling of urban development, law enforcement, and security matters. They praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what they termed a strategic appointment, saying Wike’s emergence as FCT Minister is an example of “putting the right peg in the right hole.”

Speaking through its Speaker, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the youth group highlighted the minister’s outstanding approach to governance, citing his swift actions in addressing illegal structures, encroachments, and deteriorating security in the capital.

“Wike has shown remarkable leadership and an unwavering commitment to restoring the dignity and structure of Abuja. His bold steps to remove illegal developments and clear out street beggars are long overdue and reflect his dedication to reviving the Abuja master plan,” Danbature said in a statement.

He added that Wike’s urban renewal efforts, coupled with his insistence on strict adherence to city planning laws, have raised the standard of governance in the FCT and created a ripple effect that is being felt across the region.

The Assembly also commended Wike’s collaborative efforts with neighboring states to improve regional security. According to Danbature, these partnerships have helped curb crime and improve public safety, thanks to the minister’s coordination with local and state-level security agencies.

“His readiness to work with multiple stakeholders, including state governments and grassroots security outfits, has been vital in the ongoing improvement of Abuja’s security landscape,” he noted.

While urging Wike not to be discouraged by critics, Danbature called on President Tinubu to continue giving his full support to the minister, stating that the synergy between the presidency and the FCT administration is essential for lasting reforms and national development.

He also appealed to Abuja residents to cooperate with the FCT authorities by obeying laws and participating in efforts to maintain peace and order. “Development is not a one-way task. Citizens must also take responsibility for sustaining progress,” he said.

Danbature concluded that the Assembly’s endorsement of Wike underscores the importance of competent leadership and regional cooperation in achieving sustainable growth in the FCT and beyond.

“The Arewa Youths Assembly stands with Minister Wike. His courage, vision, and actions are restoring Abuja’s lost glory and setting new standards for governance in Nigeria’s capital,” he declared.

**ENDS

Musa Luther

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has condemned the ongoing plan by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to the group in a statement issued and signed by it’s Chairman Comrade Danjuma Paul, the governor’s decision is motivated by fear and desperation which will not only be a betrayal of the principles of the PDP but also a reflection of Governor Lawal’s inability to provide effective leadership in the face of political challenges.

The group said, it is evident that the governor’s decision is primarily driven by his apprehensions regarding the political maneuvers of influential figures such as the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and Senator AbdulAziz Yari.

“The looming shadows of these established political players have evidently instilled a sense of insecurity in Governor Lawal, compelling him to seek refuge in the APC. This act of political expediency underscores a troubling trend: the prioritization of personal ambition over the collective interest of the people of Zamfara State.

“Governor Lawal has long been perceived as a political liability within the PDP. His tenure has been characterized by a lack of substantial contributions to the party’s vision and goals. Instead of fostering unity and progress, he has often been viewed as a political baggage, failing to galvanize support and inspire confidence among party members and constituents alike”..

Mr Paul said, the governors proposed defection to the APC will not alter the narrative; rather, it will only serve to further highlight his inability to rise above the challenges that have plagued his governorship.

The NSCF said, they firmly believe that the people of Zamfara State deserve a leader who prioritizes their welfare and development over personal political survival, adding that Governor Lawal’s decision to defect does not signal a commitment to better governance but rather a retreat from accountability and responsibility.

“His track record within the PDP has proven that he lacks the vision and integrity necessary to lead effectively, and his transition to the APC is unlikely to yield any positive outcomes for the citizens he purports to serve.

Moreover, the NSCF is concerned that Governor Lawal’s shift to the APC will only exacerbate the existing political tensions within Zamfara State.

“The APC, under the influence of figures like Bello Matawalle and Senator Yari, is already embroiled in its own internal struggles. Introducing a leader who has previously demonstrated a lack of political acumen will only complicate matters further and may lead to greater instability within the state’s political landscape” them forum emphaosed.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum therefore called on Governor  Lawal to reconsider his decision to defect to the APC, while urging him to prioritize the interests of the people of Zamfara State over his own political ambitions.

“The citizens deserve a leader who is committed to their welfare and who can unite rather than divide. It is our hope that the governor will reflect on his responsibility to the people he serves and choose a path that fosters unity, progress, and true democratic governance” them statement added..

Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim takes over as the 33th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna

In a significant development for the Nigerian military, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim has resumed in his new post, taking over from the immediate past Commandant Major General JO Ochai who has been in charge for almost 2 years. This appointment highlights his extensive experience and dedication to military education, training and operations within the Nigerian Army.

Born and bred in Kaduna, Major General Ibrahim hails from Borno State and has had a distinguished career since his commissioning on September 19, 1992, through the 39 Regular Combatant Course. Reputed to be a soldier’s soldier, tall well built but surprisingly calm. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to service, rising through the ranks to his current position as Major General.

Major General Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Ahmadu Bello University, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan. He is also a fellow of the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, a think tank of senior military leaders from Africa and around the world affiliated to the United States National Defence University in Washington. Gen Ibrahim is regularly invited to their roundtable discussions in Washington. He is also a regular participant and speaker at the US led Africa Land Forces Summits ( AFLFS) having participated in that of 2022 in Georgia USA and 2024 in Livingstone Zambia. His academic background, coupled with his military training, positions him well to lead the NDA in training and shaping the future leaders of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Throughout his career, Major General Ibrahim has attended numerous military courses, including the Young Officers Course, the Junior and Senior Staff Courses, and various operational training programs. He has held key positions in several battalions and units, including serving as a Platoon Commander, Company Commander ,Operations Officer and deputy Nigerian Contingent Commander in various peacekeeping missions, including those under the United Nations.

His operational experience spans critical missions, including ECOMOG in Liberia , United Nations Misson in Liberia and in Sudan. In Sudan he was part of the vanguard military observers who implemented the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that ended the decades long conflict between North and South Sudan. He had the distinct honour of being the MILOBS Team Leader in his Sector. He also served Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Maiduguri and Operation Harmony in the Bakassi Peninsula during the Nigeria- Cameroon conflict showcasing his capability in both domestic and international military operations. He has been a Chief Instructor in the Nigerian Defence Academy and also at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry Jaji Kaduna, a brigade commander, a general officer commanding in 7 Division Operation Lafiya Dole in Maiduguri and served as the longest ever serving Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force against the Boko Haram in Chad. Under his watch several operations were successfully conducted such as Operation Lake Sanity and Operation Sharan Fagge Involving all the countries of the lake Chad Basin (Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and the observer status country of Benin Republic). Deep forays were made into the lake Chad and hundreds of civilians rescued with hundreds of boko haram terrorists neutralized and thousands returned to their ancestral homes. In 7 Division, he galvanized the Division and took the fight to the adversary with remarkable success. Under the strategic guidance of Lt Gen Tukur Buratai rtd then army chief and Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya rtd who was his theatre commander , we can say he was groomed by 2 of the best. Hitherto displaced Nigerians returned to their ancestral homes in Ngoshe, Kirawa, Kauwri, Ajiri and especially Marte..where he personally led the operation that recaptured it in October 2019. The general is widely travelled with contacts and friendships cutting across both civil and military contacts the world over. He had a stint also in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) as Director of Policy in the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and light weapons. His leadership and work has earned him several accolades, including the Grand Service Star (GSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS) , Decisive Command Medal, Defence Headquarters Medal from the Armed forces of Nigeria. For his contribution to peace, security and national development, the government of Nigeria awarded him the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2023. The Chadian Government under President Mahamat Kaka Deby also awarded him the Chadian national honour of National Order of Chad in recognition of his contributions to peace in the Lake Chad Basin region.

As he takes on this new role at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim is expected to leverage his vast experience to enhance the training and education of cadets, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern assymetric warfare and contribute to national security knowing fully well the nexus between security and national development. Informed military analysts are of the opinion that given his antecedents, he should deliver on this assignment especially in the wake of reports of a drop in the level of discipline in the military institution.

Major General Ibrahim is happily married and blessed with children. He is known for his interests in current affairs, horse riding, reading, and sports, particularly football, badminton, and table tennis. He also does charity work engaging the less privileged in the society.

The Nigerian Defence Academy community and military stakeholders look forward to Major General Ibrahim’s leadership as he embarks on this critical role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s military leadership. We wish him well and urge him to hit the ground running for there is no time to waste.

The Lagos Society for Good Governance (LSGG) has raised an alarm over alleged unconstitutional tenure elongation schemes by Local Council Development Area (LCDA) chairmen in Lagos, urging President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene. The non-partisan group highlighted three LCDAs where successors of deceased chairmen are seeking third terms, contravening 2018 constitutional amendments.

**Key Details:** 
1. **Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA:** Vice Chairman Famuyiwa assumed office after Chairman Arologun’s 2019 death, won re-election in 2021, and now seeks a third term. 
2. Onigbongbo LCDA: Chairman Dotun Adekanye, who succeeded the late Dayo Oke in 2020, died in 2024; his successor’s eligibility for 2025 polls is questioned. 

3. Ikosi Isheri LCDA: Vice Chairman Abolanle Bada, who took over following Abdulfatai Oyesanya’s 2020 death, now faces criticism for a third-term bid after a 2021 re-election. 

Legal Context:

The group cited the *Fourth Alteration Bill No. 16 (2018)*, which limits successors completing a predecessor’s term to one additional term. Former presidential aide Ita Enang clarified this applies even if the initial term was incomplete. Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution mandates democratically elected local councils, reinforcing term limits.

Appeals for Action: 

LSGG called on Tinubu to leverage his “moral authority” and past opposition to tenure elongation under Obasanjo. 

Urged the Attorney-General to issue advisories clarifying term limits for local governments. 
– Pressed Lagos State’s electoral body to disqualify candidates violating term rules and adopt reforms ensuring free polls. 

– “Our democracy cannot afford normalization of constitutional violations,” stated LSGG Coordinator Ademola Gafar. 
– The group referenced Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka: “The greatest threat to democracy is… incremental violations of established norms.” 

**Broader Implications:** 
LSGG warned Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, risks setting a “dangerous precedent” if unchecked. They cited transparent council elections in Ondo, Akwa-Ibom, and northwestern states as models. 

The LSGG vowed to pursue “all legal means” to uphold term limits, urging affected chairmen to “prioritize constitutional integrity over personal ambition.” The situation tests Tinubu’s democratic credentials amid rising scrutiny of Lagos governance practices. 

— 
*Reported by [Your Name], [News Outlet]. Follow for updates on this developing story.*

Mike Musa

Zamfara State stands as a testament to resilience amid adversity. However, the current security situation has spiraled into a crisis that demands immediate federal intervention.

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has raised an urgent alarm, imploring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the region, stressing that the escalating violence, rampant kidnappings, and pervasive banditry have rendered the lives of Zamfara’s residents precarious.

NAN in a statement issued by it’s Chairman Salihu Suleiman said, the situation illuminate the gravity of the situation, the failures of local governance, and the pressing need for a concerted federal response.

The Chairman noted that over recent months, Zamfara State has experienced a resurgence of violence that has left communities traumatized. Reports indicate that armed groups have grown increasingly audacious, launching coordinated attacks on villages, displacing families, and instilling a pervasive sense of fear among the populace.

It further averred that the initial successes of federal troops in combating banditry now seem like distant memories, overshadowed by the current wave of violence that has spiraled out of control.

“The statistics are sobering: thousands have been displaced, lives have been lost, and the fabric of society has been torn apart. The psychological toll on the people of Zamfara cannot be overstated. Families live in constant fear, children are deprived of education, and economic activities have come to a standstill. The security crisis has morphed into a humanitarian catastrophe, necessitating an urgent and robust response.

“At the core of this escalating crisis lies the apparent inaction of the state government, led by Governor Dauda Lawal Dare. NAN expresses grave concern regarding the governor’s preparedness and capacity to confront the bandits who have wreaked havoc across the state.

“Instead of prioritizing the security and welfare of the citizens, the governor appears more focused on the misappropriation of public resources. This negligence has not only exacerbated the security challenges but has also eroded public trust in the government’s ability to protect its citizens”.

NAN noted that citizens of Zamfara find themselves in a precarious position, abandoned by their elected officials who have failed to provide the necessary leadership in times of crisis. The lack of decisive action from the state government has created a vacuum that has been filled by violence and fear.

“It is incumbent upon the state leadership to prioritize the safety and security of the populace, yet the current administration seems ill-equipped to do so.

“In light of the deteriorating security situation, NAN’s call for a state of emergency is not merely a plea for attention; it is a desperate cry for immediate action to address a growing humanitarian crisis. Declaring a state of emergency would facilitate the mobilization of federal resources, including military and law enforcement personnel, to restore order and protect vulnerable communities.

Federal intervention is crucial in situations where local governance has failed to provide security and stability. The capacity of federal resources to address widespread violence cannot be understated. A coordinated response involving military, police, and humanitarian agencies is essential to restore peace and provide much-needed support to the affected communities.
Moreover, the declaration of a state of emergency would send a clear signal to the people of Zamfara that their plight has not gone unnoticed. It would reaffirm the commitment of the federal government to protect its citizens and restore law and order in a region that has suffered for far too long.

“The humanitarian implications of the ongoing crisis are profound. As violence escalates, the basic needs of the populace—food, shelter, and security—are increasingly compromised. Displaced families are often left without adequate support, facing hunger and deprivation. The psychological impact of living under constant threat cannot be overlooked, as the trauma of violence seeps into the very fabric of community life”.

NAN further opined that the longer the crisis persists, the more entrenched the challenges become. Children are unable to attend school, and livelihoods are shattered and the implications extend beyond immediate security concerns; they threaten the long-term stability and development of the region.

“A comprehensive approach that includes humanitarian assistance, community rebuilding, and long-term security strategies is essential to address the multifaceted challenges faced by Zamfara State.
This call to action extends beyond the corridors of power. It is a collective responsibility that demands the involvement of all stakeholders—citizens, civil society organizations, and relevant authorities.

“The people of Zamfara deserve a government that prioritizes their safety and security. Advocacy for the rights and protection of citizens must be amplified, and the voices of those affected by violence must be heard.

“As we stand at this critical juncture, it is essential that we recognize the humanity of those affected by violence and insecurity. The people of Zamfara deserve a government that prioritizes their safety and well-being. It is time for all stakeholders to come together, united in the pursuit of peace, stability, and justice for the people of Zamfara State. The time for action is now.
The failure of Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to act decisively against the bandits underscores the urgent need for federal intervention” the statement added.