We Will Not Negotiate With Bandits — Zamfara Govt Reiterates
The Zamfara State Government has restated its position against negotiating with bandits, pledging to strengthen security operations and introduce new strategies to address the worsening insecurity in the state.
The Deputy Governor, Mani Mumuni Masamar Mudi, made this known during a condolence visit to Bunkasau village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area following a recent attack.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Shehu Adamu Gusau, Mudi expressed sorrow over the incident, which reportedly claimed at least 26 lives, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
He commended the resilience of residents, noting that they resisted the attackers and reportedly neutralised some of the assailants during the confrontation.
On behalf of the state government, the deputy governor extended condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the repose of the dead, while also wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
Speaking during the visit, the Speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, praised the community for standing up against the attackers and suggested that the Assembly may consider legislation allowing communities to bear arms for self-defence within constitutional provisions.
The Chief Imam of Bunkasau, Malam Abubakar, appreciated the government delegation’s visit and noted that the community had suffered repeated attacks but recently decided to resist the assailants. He also called for more government support to strengthen local security efforts.
The deputy governor was accompanied by top government officials, including the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ahmad Garba Yandi, and the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Mannir Fura Girke.
