‘I’ll never negotiate with terrorists’ — Zamfara governor vows

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has vowed that he would never negotiate with terrorists.

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

Lawal spoke on the worsening security situation in Zamfara while addressing the growing concerns of residents, and his administration’s response to persistent attacks.

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

He added that sitting down with terrorists for negotiations would send the wrong message and weaken the authority of the 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 the government. Therefore, as Governor of Zamfara State, I maintain that I will not negotiate with terrorists,” Lawal declared.

The governor emphasised that insecurity remains a major challenge, but insisted the government has not lost control of the situation.

He equally reacted to recent protests by residents along the Shinkafi–Kaura Namoda Road over rising insecurity and repeated attacks on communities in the area, noting that 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. The 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 added.