The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has expressed grave concern over the recent public criticisms directed towards Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle by Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal.
This political maneuvering, according to a statement by the NAN chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, is not only ill-timed but also appears to undermine the significant strides made in the fight against insecurity in the region. Such actions threaten the collaborative efforts that have been essential in restoring safety and stability, raising critical questions about the current leadership’s commitment to addressing the pervasive security crisis.
Zamfara and its neighboring states have long suffered from a catastrophic security situation, where acts of banditry have ravaged communities and disrupted everyday life. In response, Minister Matawalle has initiated several strategic measures aimed at curbing the violence, including the strategic deployment of military resources and enhanced community engagement.
Noteworthy successes under his leadership include the neutralization of key bandit leaders and the significant reduction of bandit forces operating in the region. These measures have not only brought a semblance of security back to affected areas but have also laid the groundwork for the potential socio-economic revitalization that the region desperately needs.
Amidst this backdrop, Governor Lawal's vociferous attacks on Matawalle raise pertinent questions about his intentions. His apparent culpability, particularly documented in a recently circulated letter titled 'RE-NORTH-WESTERN GOVERNORS/UN-ORGANIZED SECURITY SUMMIT IN KATSINA, unveil a troubling nexus between the state government and criminal enterprises. The document requests the outrageous sum of One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira to fund a dubious reconciliation program with notorious bandit leaders—individuals who have perpetuated violence and terror in the region.
This request, purportedly aimed at providing financial incentives to high-profile bandits, coupled with reported payoffs to certain media outlets, betrays an unsettling degree of complicity with those violent actors who have exploited the vulnerabilities of local communities.
What is particularly disheartening is that Lawal's public disdain for Matawalle’s efforts seems motivated by a desire for political capital rather than genuine concern for public safety.
"His stance not only betrays a lack of understanding regarding the complexities of the security crisis in Northern Nigeria but also raises alarms about the potential ramifications of political discord on collective security efforts.
As responsible leaders are expected to promote unity in the face of adversity, Lawal's actions may serve to embolden criminal elements, distracting from the unified front that is critical in the ongoing fight against insecurity.
NAN contends that the prevailing successes against banditry in Zamfara and its surrounding regions are not merely the product of one individual's efforts but rather a culmination of collaborative strategies involving diverse stakeholders, including community leaders and military operatives.
The actions of Governor Lawal, particularly his pointed criticisms of the Defence Minister, could ripple through the political landscape in ways that undermine the fragile security gains achieved thus far.
Given the gravity of these circumstances, NAN calls for Governor Lawal’s immediate resignation to ensure that the commendable initiatives put forth by Minister Matawalle can progress unhindered. Should he refuse, there may be a compelling case for the federal government to impose a state of emergency in Zamfara, appointing a sole administrator with a singular focus on addressing the intractable security issues plaguing the region.
An authoritative approach may re-establish order and facilitate a more robust and coordinated response from security forces, rooted in adherence to the law and the vital objective of achieving enduring peace.
"We also acknowledge that the collective movement towards stabilizing the North-West commenced with President Tinubu's directive, which led to the on-ground operations under Matawalle's administration. Prior to these interventions, the North-West was rife with horror, as rampant kidnapping rings held entire communities hostage.
"The emergence of a more secure environment, wherein bandit leaders like Bello Turji have been effectively sidelined and others like Halilu Sububu cut down, is a testament to the successes fueled by a renewed commitment to combatting insecurity.
"It is vital to respect and acknowledge the significant victories against the forces of insecurity that have afflicted our communities. The Northern populace understands profoundly the consequences of lax leadership, which often emboldens criminality. Therefore, the commendable efforts of President Tinubu and the operational success of our military forces must not be downplayed or undermined by politically motivated discord.
NAN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the ongoing battle against insecurity in Northern Nigeria. We applaud the sacrifices made by our armed forces, celebrate the collaborative spirit fostered under Minister Matawalle, and express our deep appreciation for the international allies working alongside us to restore peace. "However, the specter of politically motivated actions, such as those demonstrated by Governor Lawal, necessitates vigilance, collective action, and an unwavering commitment to unity in pursuit of a secure future for all residents of the North-West" it added.
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