Zamfara Govt Rejects Negotiating With Bandits

The Zamfara State government has reiterated its firm stance against negotiating with bandits, pledging to intensify efforts and adopt new strategies to bring an end to insecurity in the state.

The state deputy governor, Mani Mumuni Masamar Mudi, who is also the chairman of the State Committee on Sympathy and Humanitarian Assistance set up by the state government reaffirmed this in a statement.

The statement signed by the chief press secretary to the deputy governor, Shehu Adamu Gusau said the deputy governor made this known during a condolence visit to the people of Bunkasau village in Bukkuyum local government area, following a recent attack by bandits.

He expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, noting that at least twenty-six 26 people lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries. He commended the courage and resilience of the villagers, who resisted the attackers and reportedly neutralized several bandits in the process.

The deputy governor, on behalf of the state government, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased, as well as the speedy recovery of the injured.

He further announced that the state government has approved the sum of N 15 million as support for the families of those who lost their lives and for those who sustained injuries during the attack.

In his remarks, the speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, commended the people of Bunkasau for their bravery in defending themselves. He disclosed that the State Assembly would consider the possibility of enacting legislation that would allow communities to bear arms for self-defense, in line with constitutional provisions.

Also, the Chief Imam of Bunkasau, Malam Abubakar, expressed appreciation to the delegation for the visit. He revealed that the community had long endured repeated attacks from bandits but had recently mounted strong resistance, resulting in the elimination of several attackers. He appealed to the government for additional support and measures to enhance community protection.

The deputy governor was accompanied on the visit by the speaker of the State Assembly, the commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ahmad Garba Yandi, the chairman of Bukkuyum local government area, the special adviser to the governor on Security Matters, Mannir Fura Girke, and other government officials.