Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has firmly reiterated his administration’s commitment to combating banditry through decisive security operations, declaring that the government is stronger than any criminal elements and that negotiations or peace deals with bandits are not an option.
Speaking during recent engagements, Governor Lawal emphasized that yielding to bandits through negotiations would amount to surrendering state authority and conceding that criminals are more powerful than the government.
“I do not accept that terrorists are stronger than the government. Therefore, as Governor of Zamfara State, I maintain that I will not negotiate with terrorists,” Governor Lawal stated.
He further asserted that government institutions, backed by the armed forces and other security agencies, possess overwhelming strength compared to any bandit leader or group operating in the region. The Governor expressed confidence in the ongoing collaborative efforts with military and paramilitary agencies, noting that these operations are already yielding significant results in dismantling criminal networks responsible for killings, kidnappings, and cattle rustling.
Governor Lawal warned that brokering peace agreements allowing bandits to retain weapons and dictate terms is unacceptable and constitutes an offence under his administration’s policy. He called on citizens to continue supporting security forces through intelligence sharing and community vigilance while urging prayers for the success of operations aimed at restoring lasting peace to Zamfara State and the Northwest region.
“This is not a sign of weakness; it is a principled stand for the rule of law and the protection of our people,” the Governor added.
The Zamfara State Government remains committed to strengthening security infrastructure, enhancing intelligence capabilities, and sustaining pressure on criminal elements until banditry is eradicated from the state.