‘I Will Never Negotiate with Terrorists’ — Zamfara Governor Sends Strong Warning to Bandits

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has ruled out any possibility of negotiating with bandits terrorising communities across the state, declaring that his administration will not engage in talks with criminal groups under any circumstance.

The governor stated clearly that his government would continue to confront insecurity through security operations and strategic interventions rather than peace deals with armed groups.

Lawal made the remarks during an interview conducted in Hausa, where he spoke extensively on the worsening security situation in Zamfara, the growing concerns of residents, and his administration’s response to persistent attacks.

Speaking on calls for dialogue with bandits, especially after reports that some community elders attempted negotiations, the governor maintained that such an approach was unacceptable.

According to him, sitting down with terrorists for negotiations would send the wrong message and weaken the authority of government.

“Even in states where negotiations have taken place, have attacks completely stopped? Some may say there has been improvement, but how can a government sit down with criminals and negotiate? That would imply that terrorists are stronger than the state.

“I do not accept that terrorists are stronger than government. Therefore, as Governor of Zamfara State, I maintain that I will not negotiate with terrorists,” Lawal declared.

He stressed that insecurity remains a major challenge, but insisted the government has not lost control of the situation.

The governor also reacted to recent protests by residents along the Shinkafi–Kaura Namoda Road over rising insecurity and repeated attacks on communities in the area.

Residents had raised alarm over increasing displacement, with reports indicating that dozens of communities have been affected by bandit activities.

Responding to the demonstrations, Lawal said citizens have every right to express their frustration and dissatisfaction.

“Yes, such protests occurred. People have the right to express their opinions. As governor, I cannot stop citizens from protesting. Government exists to serve the people,” he said.

“If people are unhappy, we must listen to them. If their concerns can be addressed, we will address them. If something is beyond our capacity, we will explain that as well. That is democracy,” he said.

Despite public concerns, the governor rejected suggestions that bandits had overwhelmed state authorities.

“No, terrorists have not overwhelmed us. As I said, we are doing everything possible to protect lives and property.

“Just two weeks ago, there were communities that had been displaced, but we deployed security personnel, and people have since returned to their normal lives. We have done this in many places and continue to do so,” he said.

Lawal also spoke on the activities of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, who remains one of the most feared figures linked to violent attacks across the North-West.

Asked why Turji had continued to evade capture despite ongoing security operations, the governor expressed confidence that the wanted bandit leader would eventually be arrested.

“No terrorist is stronger than the government. It is only a matter of time. By Allah’s grace, we will get him,” he said.

When pressed on a timeline, Lawal said security operations cannot be tied to specific dates.

“I cannot give a timeline. This is warfare, not a simple matter where you can predict an exact date. But based on the measures we have put in place, I am confident he will eventually be apprehended.”

The governor further defended several security initiatives introduced by his administration to combat criminal activities in the state.

He confirmed the creation of the Askarawa security corps and acknowledged the deployment of Civilian Joint Task Force operatives from Borno State to support ongoing operations.

Lawal noted that security agencies, including the military and police, remain actively involved in coordinated efforts to flush out criminal elements from their hideouts.

He added that security forces have recorded significant successes in recent operations.

“I can assure you that many of these terrorists have already been dealt with. Some have been arrested, while others have been killed,” he said.

“This effort is ongoing, and by Allah’s grace, we will ultimately defeat them.”

The governor also addressed growing concerns over reports that bandits have begun deploying landmines and improvised explosive devices in some parts of Zamfara.

He described the development as a changing tactic by criminal groups but assured residents that security agencies are adapting accordingly.

“We are not intimidated, nor will we be. Terrorism is like a plague, and it requires determination to defeat. The government is always prepared to confront these criminals.

“They constantly change tactics, so we must adapt our response. We regularly arrest people involved in planting explosives. Even today, some suspects were arrested in different communities.

“We will continue pursuing them until this threat is eliminated, by Allah’s grace,” the governor said.