Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has reiterated his opposition to negotiating with bandits, insisting that his administration will not enter into any peace agreement with criminal groups operating in the state.
Speaking during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Lawal said lasting peace can only be achieved through sustained security operations and not through dialogue with armed groups responsible for violence across the state.
“Seeking a truce with bandits is not my opinion and never will be,” the governor said.
He clarified that any individuals or groups involved in peace arrangements with bandits were acting independently and without the approval or backing of the Zamfara State Government.
Lawal stressed that his administration has consistently rejected negotiations with groups linked to killings, kidnappings, cattle rustling, and attacks on communities, adding that recent reports of local peace deals did not originate from the state government.
The governor expressed confidence in the capacity of security agencies to defeat criminal elements, arguing that no bandit group possesses the strength or resources to challenge the Nigerian state.
“The government is stronger than any bandit group,” he stated.
According to him, ongoing military offensives, intelligence-driven operations, and improved collaboration among security agencies will eventually dismantle criminal networks operating in Zamfara and neighbouring states.
Lawal further argued that previous attempts to negotiate with bandits failed to deliver lasting peace and, in some cases, emboldened criminal groups to carry out more attacks.
He noted that the current security strategy is already producing positive results, with some communities that were once major hotspots beginning to experience improved security due to intensified operations.
The governor appealed to residents to support security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace across Zamfara, insisting that decisive action against armed groups remains the most effective and sustainable route to long-term security and stability.
