Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has restated his administration’s unwavering position against negotiating with bandits, declaring that his government will not legitimise criminality by engaging with those responsible for terrorising the state.
Speaking on Thursday during a visit to several communities recently attacked by gunmen, the governor made clear that his administration would neither offer dialogue nor concessions to armed groups. His remarks come amid renewed attacks in parts of the state, which have left dozens dead and thousands displaced in recent weeks.
“I made it very clear from day one — we will never negotiate with bandits,” Lawal said while addressing residents in Kagara, Dan Isa, and Kasuwar Daji, all in the Kauran Namoda Local Government Area. “These criminals have repeatedly proven that they have no sincerity, no remorse, and no intention of stopping unless they are confronted decisively.”
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According to a statement by his media aide, Sulaiman Baba Idris, the governor’s visit formed part of a wider condolence and solidarity tour to communities affected by recent violence. He met with local leaders, victims, and security personnel, pledging stronger action and support from the state government.
Governor Lawal also assured residents that security remains the top priority of his administration, with resources being mobilised to reinforce law enforcement and community protection. He called on citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to ensure a coordinated response.
Beyond security concerns, the governor highlighted the dire infrastructural conditions in the visited communities, particularly the poor state of access roads. He pledged urgent intervention to rehabilitate key routes, noting that better connectivity would support emergency response efforts and long-term development.
“Our fight is not just against guns and kidnappings — it’s also against the poverty and neglect that allow insecurity to thrive,” Lawal said. “We will rebuild, we will restore, and we will not back down.”
Governor Lawal’s stance stands in contrast to previous administrations in Zamfara that explored negotiations and amnesty deals with armed groups — strategies that critics say emboldened the bandits and failed to produce lasting peace.
As Zamfara continues to grapple with violent attacks, kidnappings, and rural displacement, the governor’s message is clear: there will be no compromise with those who threaten the peace and stability of the state.
