The governor made this position known through his Chief of Staff, Mukhtar Musa, at the inauguration of the Association of Zamfara State Indigenes Residing in Kaduna secretariat on Sunday
KaNo —
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has reiterated his administration’s firm stance against negotiating with bandits,declaring that his government will instead sustain military offensives until criminal groups surrender or face the full force of the law.
The governor made this position known through his Chief of Staff, Mukhtar Musa, at the inauguration of the Association of Zamfara State Indigenes Residing in Kaduna secretariat on Sunday.
The event, which drew participants from across the country, also featured the distribution of food items to less-privileged members of the association.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Musa emphasised that the Lawal administration remains resolute in its commitment to tackling insecurity, particularly the menace of banditry that has plagued several communities in Zamfara and neighbouring states.
“The governor will never negotiate with bandits. Those willing to surrender should do so or face the law,” Musa stated
He explained that the government would continue to strengthen collaboration with security agencies by providing logistics, equipment, ammunition and other forms of operational support needed to sustain the fight against armed groups.
According to him, the state is committed to maintaining sustained pressure on bandits until lasting peace is restored.
Musa also highlighted the importance of community intelligence in combating insecurity, noting that residents play a critical role in providing timely information that can aid security operations.
“The support and cooperation of residents are vital. Intelligence from the people will significantly enhance the effectiveness of ongoing operations,” he added.
Beyond security, Musa reassured members of the association that the governor is committed to delivering meaningful development across Zamfara, including initiatives aimed at rebuilding communities affected by violence.
He described the inauguration of the association’s secretariat as a significant milestone, reflecting unity and solidarity among Zamfara indigenes living outside their home state.
He commended the organisers for their efforts in establishing the facility and fostering a sense of belonging among members.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the association, Garba Balarabe, described the inauguration as historic, noting that the secretariat would serve as a hub for coordination, unity and welfare support for members.
Balarabe also appealed to the Zamfara State Government to assist the association in acquiring a permanent office in Kaduna.
The Chairman of the occasion and Zamfara Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abdulrahman Tumbido, commended the association for its humanitarian initiative, noting that many Zamfara indigenes relocated to Kaduna due to insecurity in their home state.
Despite the challenges, Tumbido expressed optimism that peace would soon return to Zamfara, citing ongoing efforts by the government and security agencies.
Also speaking, the National President of the Zamfara State Indigenes Association, Usman Balarabe, called for greater unity among members irrespective of their location.
He stressed the need for collective action in supporting vulnerable groups, including women and children.
In her remarks, the association’s Ex-Officio, Aishatu Maradun, pledged continued efforts to create opportunities for members and appealed for sustained government support for programmes aimed at strengthening the association.
Similarly, Garba Abubakar, who represented Abdullahi AbdulKarim Tsafe at the event, formally inaugurated the secretariat.
He described the distribution of food items as a commendable gesture and recommended translating the association’s constitution into Hausa to enhance understanding among members.
According to him, a well-understood constitution would provide a solid framework for effective administration and ensure the sustainability of the association’s activities.
The event attracted government officials, traditional rulers, politicians and community leaders from Kaduna, Abuja and other parts of the country, reflecting broad support for the initiative.
Police Neutralize Armed Bandit
In a related development highlighting ongoing security challenges in the North-West, the Sokoto State Police Command announced the neutralisation of a suspected armed bandit and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle during a foiled attack on Daraye Village in Wamako Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Rufa’i, the Command said the operation followed a distress call received at about 1:35 a.m. on July 4, reporting an invasion by heavily armed bandits.
The statement noted that operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Village Crime Reduction Unit and other tactical teams were swiftly deployed to reinforce officers at the Wamakko Divisional Headquarters.
Upon arrival, security personnel engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, demonstrating what the police described as superior tactical proficiency.
The bandits were eventually overpowered and forced to retreat into nearby forests with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
A subsequent search of the area led to the neutralisation of one suspect, while an AK-47 rifle and a magazine loaded with 28 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition were recovered.
Neighbouring divisional police headquarters have also been placed on high alert to intercept fleeing suspects who may attempt to seek medical treatment.
Commenting on the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism.
“The gallantry displayed by our officers is highly commendable. The Command remains unwavering in its commitment to eradicating banditry and ensuring the safety of lives and property,” he said.
He assured residents that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, would continue sustained operations against criminal elements until peace is fully restored.
While the Zamfara government maintains a hardline stance against negotiation, security agencies continue to intensify operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring stability.
