Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has reaffirmed his administration’s opposition to negotiating with bandits, insisting that seeking peace deals with criminal groups remains unacceptable in the state.

The governor made the remarks during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service monitored in Kaduna.

Lawal stated that it is an offence in Zamfara State to broker peace agreements with bandits as his administration is vehemently against it, stressing that the state government has consistently maintained a hard-line stance against negotiations with armed groups terrorising communities across the state.

The governor’s comments followed reports that some individuals recently entered into a truce arrangement with bandits operating in parts of the state. According to him, those involved acted independently and did not represent the position of the Zamfara State Government.

He emphasised that his administration remains committed to a strategy centred on military operations and law enforcement actions rather than dialogue with criminal elements. Lawal argued that previous attempts at negotiating with bandits had failed to produce lasting peace and often emboldened criminal groups.

“Seeking a truce with bandits is not my opinion and never will be,” the governor said, reiterating that his government would not compromise with individuals responsible for killings, kidnappings and other violent crimes across Zamfara communities.

Lawal expressed confidence in the capacity of government security agencies to defeat banditry, maintaining that no criminal group possesses the strength to overwhelm the Nigerian state. He noted that the battle against insecurity may take time, but victory remains achievable through sustained operations.

The governor further stated that government institutions, backed by the armed forces and other security agencies, are significantly stronger than any notorious bandit leader operating in the region. He said the challenge lies in persistence and coordination rather than a lack of capacity.

According to him, the security strategy being implemented by his administration is already yielding results, with several previously volatile areas experiencing relative peace and improved security conditions.

He credited the progress to ongoing military offensives and enhanced collaboration among security agencies.

Lawal also urged residents to remain patient and continue supporting lawful efforts aimed at restoring peace across Zamfara State. He assured citizens that the government would not relent in its determination to dismantle criminal networks and secure affected communities.

The governor’s latest remarks reinforce a position he has repeatedly maintained since assuming office that lasting peace in Zamfara can only be achieved through decisive action against banditry rather than negotiated settlements.

He expressed optimism that the state would eventually overcome the security challenges confronting it. (Vanguard)

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