By Ismail Abdulaziz
The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has called for Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal’s immediate resignation. This demand follows allegations of Governor Lawal’s involvement with terror groups operating in the region.
AYCF President General Yerima Shettima stated that Governor Lawal’s recent demands for Minister of State for Defence Bello Mohammed Matawalle’s resignation are misguided. Instead, Governor Lawal should step down due to his alleged ties to criminal enterprises.
A leaked document, RE-NORTH-WESTERN GOVERNORS/UN-ORGANIZED SECURITY SUMMIT IN KATSINA, reveals Governor Lawal’s connections to notorious bandit leaders. The document requests One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a dubious reconciliation programme.
This initiative raises serious concerns, as funds were earmarked for bandit leaders Bello Turji, Dogo Gide, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, and Gwaska Dan Karami, and payoffs for media houses and influencers.
The AYCF views Governor Lawal’s actions as a diversion from his alleged complicity with terror groups. His unease grew after his aide, Bashir Hadejiya, was arrested for gun running and international criminal conspiracy.
The elimination of bandit leader Halilu Sububu and dwindling criminal factions, thanks to Minister Matawalle’s efforts, have weakened Governor Lawal’s alleged affiliates.
Governor Lawal’s calls for Matawalle’s resignation demonstrate a grave misunderstanding of the region’s dire circumstances. The AYCF praises Minister Matawalle’s tangible results in combating banditry.
The forum demands Governor Lawal’s resignation, citing his tenure’s dangerous governance-criminality overlap. If he refuses, the AYCF advocates for a Zamfara State emergency declaration.
This would involve Governor Lawal’s removal and replacement with a military sole administrator. The AYCF believes this measure is crucial for restoring order and addressing the security crisis.
The people of Zamfara deserve governance prioritizing safety and well-being. As the AYCF emphasized, “The time for decisive action is now.”
The AYCF urges authorities to investigate Governor Lawal’s alleged ties to terror groups and take necessary action.
The forum’s stance reflects growing concerns about governance and security in Zamfara State.
AYCF’s call for Governor Lawal’s resignation marks a significant development in the region’s ongoing security crisis.
Dan Zaki Media 