The reported “double standard” of Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State on the issue of ensuring security in the state has drawn criticism from gender protection group, the Girl-child Right and Freedom Protection Centre.
This criticism is coming on the heels of a footage and images that surfaced online, allegedly showing Zamfara government official negotiating with the bandits leading to fears that the government is using the situation for political gain.
The group criticized the Governor for abandoning innocent women for a personal trip abroad only to return several days afterwards and attempt to manipulate the situation for political agenda.
In a statement issued by its chairperson, Lynda Ajayi, the group points to the indecision of the Zamfara government, which had earlier rejected the idea of negotiation as an option.
The Group threw its full weight behind the calls for the declaration of a state of emergency by the Federal Government, saying that remains almost the only way out.
“The nation cannot continue to afford entrusting the lives of innocent students, vulnerable members of society in the care of people who have proven themselves irresponsible, insensitive, incapable and harboring perspersonal agendas for self-perpetuation.
“Zamfara State is facing a full-blown crisis on a range of fronts, and the state Governor seems unable or unwilling to respond with appropriate concern. The entire state is under direct attack but there is a leadership vacuum right now, and he’s not filling it.
In moments of crisis, the Governor is called upon to be a leader. And when people are feeling scared and angry and outraged, they look to him for that, and they’re not getting much,” the Group said.
Calling on the federal security forces to immediately arrest and interrogate the motives and extent of damage caused by the official shown negotiating with the bandits, the Group said government must not look away in the face of this impunity and deliberate compromise of security.
“Governor Lawal, it is clear, has failed to prioritize the safety of the victims and work on securing their release without endangering their lives. Political point-scoring should be avoided in this situation, as the lives of innocent individuals are at stake.
“The situation in Zamfara State remains tense, and the lives of the students held in captivity are still at risk. It is imperative that the federal government takes immediate action to address this crisis and prioritize the safety of the victims.
“The state’s negotiation with bandits has raised concerns about its motives, and it is crucial that political point-scoring is avoided. The civil society and all stakeholders must to hold the Zamfara government accountable for its actions. The abandonment of innocent women for personal gain is unacceptable, and it is crucial that their voices are heard.
“Ultimately, the safety and well-being of the students held in captivity must be prioritized above all else and government must take swift action to secure their release without endangering their lives or compromising their future,” the group said.
