Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has expressed willingness to negotiate with bandits on the condition that they cease attacks and surrender their weapons.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Lawal said his administration was open to dialogue, provided it was based on truth and sincerity. This marks a shift from his government’s earlier stance against any negotiations with criminal groups.
“Dialogue is not entirely off the table, but it must be anchored on truth and honesty,” Lawal said. “Many people have suffered losses, including their parents and spouses. It is essential to address their plight rather than solely focusing on the bandits.”
The governor’s statement contrasts with the firm position taken in July 2024 by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Mobilisation, Alhaji Faruk Ahmad, who had ruled out reconciliation with any bandit leader.
“We will not reconcile with any bandit leader. We will continue fighting them. Those willing to surrender should do so, and those who are not will be fought,” Ahmad had said.
Governor Lawal also highlighted recent successes in the state’s security operations, stating that over 50 terrorists were killed on Friday in Tungar Fulani, along the Zurmi/Shinkafi axis. He added that several notorious bandit leaders linked to Bello Turji, including Sani Mainasara, Sani Black, and Kachallah Auta, had been eliminated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the fight against criminal elements. “They should either lay down their weapons or we continue with our decisive action against them,” he said.
