The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC) has strongly condemned Governor Dauda Lawal for allegedly politicizing the state’s rising insecurity situation and placing personal vendettas over peoples wellbeing.
The APC’s Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Yusuf Idris Gusau, alleged that Lawal’s refusal to cooperate with Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, as irresponsible and disgrace to the governorship office.
” Governor Lawal has repeatedly ignored efforts by the Defence Ministry to collaborate on tackling armed banditry in Zamfara, instead focusing on political rivalries.
” Matawalle is deeply concerned about the deteriorating security in his home state, has made several attempts to reach out to Lawal for joint action, ” he said.
However, Lawal has refused all overtures, even instructing his aides to block calls from Matawalle, according to the APC.
Despite this cold-shoulder approach, the federal government has stepped in under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinibu, the Ministry of Defence to relocated its operational base to neighboring Sokoto State.
He stressed that Lawal refusal to provide land or support for a military base in Zamfara. The Sokoto State government, led by Governor Ahmed Aliyu, welcomed the operation, leading to significant military successes, including the elimination of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu.
The APC slammed Lawal for his lack of action, accusing him of failing his people while bandits wreak havoc.
“Governor Lawal is more concerned with discrediting Matawalle’s efforts than saving Zamfara’s citizens,” the statement reads.
“He has refused to cooperate, failed to provide the necessary support for military operations, and has allowed his personal agenda to overshadow the state’s urgent security needs.” he said.
The party spokesman noted that Zamfara continues to bleed, the APC calls on the governor to abandon his political games and focus on delivering the promises he made during his campaign.
Idris added that people of Zamfara deserve security, not a governor who is more interested in settling scores than saving lives.