Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has made a startling revelation, stating that the Nigerian military can end banditry in the state within two weeks, but lacks the political will to do so.
In an interview on Channels Television on Tuesday, the Governor expressed his frustration and disappointment with the federal government’s handling of the security situation in Zamfara. He alleged that the military and other security agencies have an “uninspiring attitude” towards combating banditry, which has ravaged the state for years.
Lawal emphasized that the state government has done its part in providing support and resources to the military, but the federal government has failed to demonstrate the necessary political will to tackle the issue head-on.
“In two weeks, we can take care of the situation, but the political will is not there,” he said, “We know who they (bandits) are. We know where they live. It’s just that there is no political will.” He noted that the President is not receiving accurate briefings on the security situation, which has further hindered efforts to address the problem.
The Governor also alleged that some individuals are secretly negotiating with bandits, undermining efforts to address the issue. He did not disclose the identities of these individuals, but his statement suggests that there may be some level of complicity or collusion between certain government officials and the bandits.
Lawal’s comments are a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles in Zamfara, where banditry has led to countless deaths, displacement, and destruction of property. The state government has been working to address the issue, but the lack of support from the federal government has hindered progress.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
