Forum Demands Zamfara Governor’s Resignation Over Villager’s Murder

The Zamfara Good Governance Forum (ZGGF) has demanded the immediate resignation of Governor Dauda Lawal, accusing him of gross incompetence following the killing of 35 abducted villagers in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area despite a N50 million ransom payment.

The group, in a statement on Monday by its President, Alhaji Sani Mohammed, said the villagers from Banga community were among 53 people abducted months ago, with their captors demanding N1 million each.

After the community managed to raise and pay N50 million, only 18 hostages were released, while the remaining 35 were reportedly executed.

“What happened in Banga village is a national tragedy. Thirty-five innocent citizens were slaughtered like animals — even after a ransom of N50 million was paid. And yet, the governor who swore an oath to protect lives and property is busy playing hide and seek with the same terrorists,” the statement read.

The Forum accused Governor Lawal of double-speak, alleging that while he publicly opposes granting amnesty to bandits, he privately engages with their leaders.

“This governor cannot be trusted. One day, he says amnesty is wrong, the next day he welcomes bandit commanders like honoured guests. Is he in charge of the state or working for the same people who are turning Zamfara into a killing field?” Mohammed queried.

The group further criticised Lawal for failing to live up to his campaign promises, claiming his administration has no coherent strategy to tackle the worsening insecurity.

“Before his election, Dauda Lawal positioned himself as the messiah Zamfara needed. He spoke like a man who understood the scale of the crisis. But today, it is obvious he had no plan — only ambition,” it stated.

The ZGGF warned that rural communities like Banga have been left at the mercy of terrorists who now control territories, impose levies, kidnap at will, and commit atrocities against residents.

“Banga is now ruled by terrorists. Neighbouring villages are deserted. Women are being raped, men are being killed or abducted. What is this governor doing apart from press conferences and photo ops?” the group asked.

The Forum called on Governor Lawal to resign immediately, urging President Bola Tinubu to declare a special security operation in Zamfara and treat the situation as a national emergency.

“Zamfara is bleeding. The President must act. But before that, the governor must go. His continued stay in office is a mockery of the pain and bloodshed we have endured,” Mohammed added.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.

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