I Don’t Have Control Over Security in Zamfara – Gov Lawal

Bashar Jelani Limanchi

5 months ago

I Don’t Have Control Over Security in Zamfara – Gov Lawal

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has publicly voiced his frustration over the lack of control he possesses regarding security operations within the state. Speaking at a town hall meeting marking Nigeria’s 25th Democracy Day in Abuja, Governor Lawal expressed dismay over the rampant activities of bandits in Zamfara, attributing the worsening situation to political interference.

Despite being constitutionally designated as the chief security officer of the state, Governor Lawal clarified that he does not wield command over security agencies such as the military, police, or civil defense. He highlighted that these agencies take directives solely from their superiors, not from state governors, which limits effective coordination and response to security threats.

Governor Lawal emphasized that political interference remains a significant barrier to tackling the security challenges plaguing Zamfara. He asserted that without such interference, the Nigerian military possesses the capability to swiftly eliminate criminal elements, drawing parallels to successful military interventions in neighboring countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone.

The governor’s remarks come amidst ongoing banditry in Zamfara State, where criminal gangs frequently engage in raiding villages, looting property, and perpetrating violence against residents. Despite efforts such as the recent establishment of the Zamfara State Community Protection Guards, the state continues to grapple with insecurity, impacting the lives and livelihoods of its citizens.

Governor Lawal expressed optimism that with the necessary political will, security forces could quell the banditry menace within a span of two weeks. However, he stressed the urgent need to address political interference to allow security agencies the freedom to effectively deploy their capabilities.