Lawal stands firm against talks with Zamfara bandits
Fifty elders from Zamfara remain in captivity after a failed attempt to negotiate peace with bandits in Magamin Diddi village. Governor Dauda Lawal has condemned both the bandits’ actions and the elders’ unsanctioned mission, reiterating his administration’s refusal to negotiate with criminals. The situation has sparked debate among residents, with some supporting the governor’s hardline stance and others urging dialogue to restore peace. Despite ongoing insecurity, Lawal maintains that security operations are yielding progress in the state.
What we know
- Fifty Zamfara elders were kidnapped during a self-organised peace mission to a bandit camp in Magamin Diddi village.
- Governor Dauda Lawal criticised the elders for acting without government approval and declared their actions illegal and unauthorised.
- The governor insists his administration will not negotiate with bandits, stating that previous attempts at dialogue in the state failed to end banditry.
- Some residents support Lawal’s refusal to negotiate, while others believe dialogue is necessary to end killings and kidnappings.
- Lawal claims security measures have improved the situation, especially for agriculture, but acknowledges challenges remain.
