I could end banditry in 2 months if given control of security – Zamfara Gov Lawal

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has sparked fresh debate over Nigeria’s fight against insecurity after boldly declaring that banditry in the state would end within two months if he had direct control over security agencies.

In an undated viral video making the rounds on social media, the governor revealed that he has access to intelligence on the daily movements of bandits through tracking devices. However, he lamented his inability to act decisively due to constitutional limitations that place security agencies under the federal government’s authority.

“In less than two months back, I bought 150 brand new cars; I distributed them to security agencies even though I can’t ask them to do or undo,” the governor said in Hausa.

“But it is my duties and responsibilities and I did, but they can only be directed from Abuja.

“I swear to Allah, there was a time I shed tears. We see there’s a need for them (security operatives) to be there (areas prone to bandit attacks) and protect people but they won’t until they get directives from Abuja.

“Let me tell you something, I swear to God wherever bandits are, we know. I know, I can show you on this phone wherever they are… I know, but we can do nothing.

“If I am the one in power to give the directives, I swear this issue will come to an end in 2 months.”

Zamfara is one of the northern states most affected by the activities of bandits and gunmen. Recently, there has been an uptick in gunmen attacks on Zamfara communities.

On August 23, gunmen killed two residents and abducted at least 100, in Gamdum Mallam and Ruwan Rana villages of Bukkuyum LGA.

In early August, gunmen raided several communities in Kauran Namoda LGA, killing 24 people, injuring 16, and abducting 144.