The Zamfara State Government has categorically dismissed the rumors and accusations circulating in certain quarters that it provided a substantial sum of money to notorious bandit leaders under the guise of reconciliation efforts. These claims also suggested that the alleged funds were intended to allow the government to carry out illegal mining operations, all supposedly financed by the State Security Trust Fund. In response, the state has firmly denied any involvement in such activities and reiterated its commitment to non-negotiation with bandits or any criminal elements operating within its borders.
The Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Nakwada, made this known during a press briefing in Gusau, the state capital. He addressed the misleading reports head-on, noting that the government remains steadfast in its resolve to tackle the security challenges posed by banditry and other criminal activities without resorting to any form of negotiation. Nakwada emphasized that the government’s approach to security is grounded in ensuring the safety and well-being of the people of Zamfara, and it would not entertain any measures that would compromise its principles or embolden criminal actors.
In his address, Nakwada took the opportunity to highlight the rich mineral resources of Zamfara State, particularly gold, which have long been a source of illegal mining operations. These illegal activities, he explained, have not only robbed the state of valuable revenue but also contributed to a rise in insecurity. It is well documented that criminal networks, including bandits, have exploited the region’s mineral wealth to finance their operations, leading to environmental degradation and heightened tension in affected communities.
Despite these challenges, the state government, in close alignment with the Federal Government, remains committed to enforcing the existing ban on mining activities in the state. Nakwada affirmed that the ban, which was initially imposed by the Federal Government, is still in full force, and Governor Dauda Lawal has taken additional steps to reinforce this stance by issuing a local ban on all mining activities across Zamfara. These measures, he stressed, are intended to cut off a critical source of funding for bandits and ensure that no individual or group benefits from the illegal exploitation of the state’s resources.
“The rumors suggesting that the state government is involved in mining activities are completely false,” Nakwada said, denying any involvement of the state in these operations. He also refuted claims that the State Security Trust Fund was being used to provide financial incentives to bandit leaders under the pretext of reconciliation. Nakwada reiterated that the government has no plans to negotiate with bandits, stating unequivocally that the administration remains focused on protecting the lives and properties of Zamfara’s residents.
“Our administration remains unwavering in its dedication to safeguarding the lives and properties of our people,” he remarked. “We will spare no effort in ensuring the security and well-being of the people of Zamfara.”
To this end, the state government has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at combating the menace of banditry. One such initiative is the introduction of Community Protection Guards, known locally as Askarawa, who have been tasked with assisting conventional security forces in their fight against bandits. These community guards work alongside the military and police, offering local knowledge and support to enhance security operations across the state.
In addition to the deployment of the Askarawa, the state government has also made significant investments in modern surveillance and communication technologies. These advanced tools have greatly improved the government’s ability to detect and respond to security threats in real-time. Nakwada highlighted how the integration of these technologies has allowed security forces to preempt and thwart bandit attacks, reducing the overall threat to the population.
In further remarks, Mahmud Muhammed, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, also addressed the allegations linking the state government to mining activities. He strongly denied that Governor Dauda Lawal or any member of the state government had ever been involved in illegal mining. “As the head of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, I can categorically state that neither the governor nor the state government has ever engaged in any form of mining,” Muhammed asserted. He explained that while investors often approach the state with proposals to carry out mining operations, the government always insists that due process be followed, in line with the Federal Government’s ban on mining.
“Mining is in the exclusive list,” Muhammed explained, “it belongs to the Federal Government, and we are fully aware of the ban. There is nothing the state can do without the approval of the Federal Government.”
The Attorney General of Zamfara State and Commissioner for Justice, Abdul’Aziz Sani (SAN), also weighed in on the controversy, warning that the state government would pursue legal action against those responsible for spreading false information. He described the allegations as malicious and designed to undermine the government’s efforts to restore peace and security in the state. “This administration is one of seriousness, frankness, and truth. We are not here to pretend or sabotage the safety of the people,” Sani stated.
He further explained that the government had already written to relevant authorities to begin the necessary legal proceedings against the individuals and groups responsible for propagating these rumors. Sani emphasized that the government’s priority is the safety and security of its citizens, and it would not allow anyone to jeopardize this through the spread of false and inflammatory information.
In conclusion, the Zamfara State Government remains resolute in its stance against negotiating with bandits and continues to work closely with federal authorities to combat the twin challenges of insecurity and illegal mining. The administration’s approach is built on a foundation of transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the rule of law. Through the introduction of community-based security initiatives and the adoption of cutting-edge technology, the state aims to provide a safer and more secure environment for its residents. The government’s message is clear: it will not compromise on the security of the state, and it will not engage in any actions that could empower criminal elements at the expense of the people’s safety.
