A group known as Arewa Youth for Peace and Security has strongly criticized Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, accusing him of neglecting the security situation in the state. The group’s condemnation comes in the wake of a social media report alleging that the Minister of Defence for State and former governor of Zamfara, Bello Matawalle, had been providing food supplies to the Ado Aliero-led bandits who are causing havoc in the region.

In a statement signed by its President, Abubakar Hassan Kankia, the group accused Governor Lawal of using the issue of insecurity in Zamfara for his own political gain, only to now abandon his responsibilities to the people. They claimed that Lawal, who promised to restore security within his first 100 days in office, has failed to deliver on his commitments and instead is preoccupied with frivolous activities while the state suffers.

The group further alleged that Governor Lawal’s administration has been ineffective in addressing the rising insecurity in Zamfara, with bandits openly praising him for creating a safe haven for their criminal activities. They accused Lawal of squandering public funds and spreading false information about Matawalle in a bid to divert attention from his own shortcomings.

According to the Arewa Youth for Peace and Security, the bandits operating in Zamfara now see Governor Lawal as an ally and are pushing for him to remain in power beyond his term, as they continue to operate with impunity.

The situation in Zamfara remains dire, with Governor Lawal facing mounting criticism for his handling of the security crisis in the state. As the people of Zamfara continue to suffer at the hands of bandits, the call for decisive action and accountability from their leaders grows louder.