Zamfara APC Calls for State of Emergency Amid Lingering Security Challenges

The Zamfara Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the state due to the persistent security threats. In a statement released in Gusau on Saturday, State APC Publicity Secretary Yusuf Idris emphasized that the people of Zamfara have lost confidence in Governor Dauda Lawal’s ability to address the security situation.

Idris stated, “We are appealing to President Bola Tinubu to enforce a state of emergency in the state over insecurity.” He added that the ongoing military operations in the North-West, led by Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, have yielded impressive results, with bandits’ leaders and gangs being subdued.

However, Idris expressed concern that the Zamfara Government is attempting to sabotage the ongoing military efforts through media campaigns. “Gov. Dauda is now bent on distracting the operation through media campaigns and propaganda,” he said.

The APC chapter commended the military’s onslaught against bandits and terrorists, noting that it’s crucial to sustain the operation to rid the region of criminality. Idris recalled that the military had warned Lawal to steer clear of their activities and efforts.

Idris emphasized that calling for a state of emergency is necessary to prevent the governor’s alleged “mischievous plan” and allow security operatives to operate without interference. He stated, “This need is highly desirable so that the operation can go unhindered and the security operatives can go into the state without the governor and government of Zamfara politicizing the manhunt.”

The APC publicity secretary criticized Lawal for portraying himself as the sole sponsor of the operation, despite having no involvement. He highlighted Lawal’s history of attacking his predecessor, Matawalle, and refusing to partner with him in fighting banditry.

The ongoing security operations in the North-West, led by Matawalle, have effectively decimated criminals, their leaders, and camps, Idris noted.