The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF), following recent developments within the political landscape of Zamfara State, particularly statements made by Governor Dauda Lawal regarding the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has called on the governor to resign, citing his failure to provide effective governance and accusing him of engaging in blame games.
According to a statement issued by the forum’s convener, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the Governor’s call for Minister Matawalle’s resignation is not only misplaced but also indicative of a deeper problem affecting governance in Zamfara State, a problem that can only be resolved by Governor Lawal stepping down from his position.
“The allegations surrounding Governor Lawal have reached a critical point, especially regarding accusations of financial misconduct linked to funding terror groups. This alleged involvement stands in stark contrast to the demonstrated commitment of Minister Matawalle in addressing the scourge of banditry that has plagued the region,” the statement read.
“A distressing document, circulating within political and civil society circles, has surfaced, outlining a desperate request to Governor Lawal for an exorbitant sum of One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira. This sum was purportedly allocated for a reconciliation program aimed at brokering peace with notorious bandits, including infamous leaders such as Bello Turji, Dogo Gide, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, and Gwaska Dan Karami.”
According to the forum, the implications of these financial negotiations cannot be understated, raising critical questions about the ethical governance of Zamfara State. The notion that taxpayer resources could be directed toward appeasing bandits further erodes the public’s trust in their elected officials.
“The revelation of such a reconciliation program invites skepticism about Governor Lawal’s commitment to the welfare of the state and its people, particularly as the security situation on the ground continues to deteriorate,” the forum noted.
The NSCF also referenced the recent arrest of Bashir Hadejiya, a former aide to Governor Lawal, on serious charges of gunrunning and international criminal conspiracy, which has only compounded the crisis of confidence surrounding the Governor’s administration.
“While Lawal’s desperation seems to grow alongside the security challenges, it is evident that any semblance of authority and credibility is eroding rapidly. In this tumultuous environment, the commendable progress made under Minister Matawalle’s leadership in the fight against banditry is critical to restoring peace and stability in the region.”
The statement praised Minister Matawalle’s recent actions, which demonstrate a strategic and disciplined approach to combating banditry, yielding tangible results, including the elimination of key bandit leaders and a significant reduction in violence. These accomplishments, the forum stressed, should not be overshadowed by politically motivated attacks on key stakeholders involved in regional security efforts.
Instead of engaging in a divisive narrative aimed at shifting blame, the forum urged Governor Lawal to reflect on the broader implications of his leadership and the urgent need for accountability.
The NSCF emphasized that for the progress made in the fight against banditry to be sustained and for genuine development to occur, a shift in leadership is necessary. The call for Governor Lawal’s resignation, the forum said, is not merely a reactionary stance but a responsible demand based on ethical governance that prioritizes the safety and well-being of Zamfara’s citizens over political survival.
The forum further warned, “Should Governor Lawal fail to heed this call for resignation, we will advocate for the imposition of a state of emergency, necessitating his removal from office and the appointment of a military sole administrator. Such a move would ensure that the imperative of restoring security takes precedence over the inadequacies of a faltering political administration.”
The NSCF called upon all stakeholders, including the Federal Government and civil society, to recognize the urgency of the situation and act decisively. According to the forum, the current state of affairs in Zamfara demands leadership that is accountable, ethical, and committed to prioritizing the needs of the citizens above political expediency.
“We implore Governor Dauda Lawal to resign in the interest of peace and security in Zamfara State. The time is now to place the well-being of our people above all else, for in their safety and prosperity lies the future of our communities,” the statement concluded.
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