Zamfara State Refutes Claims of Payments to Bandits
The Zamfara State Government has strongly denied allegations that it paid large sums of money to bandits as part of a dialogue process. At a press briefing in Gusau, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abubakar Nakwada, dismissed circulating documents that claim the government released funds to prominent bandit leaders.
Nakwada described the documents as “fake, misleading, malicious, and completely false,” asserting that his and other officials’ signatures were forged. He reassured the public that security agencies are actively investigating the origin of these claims on social media.
Rejection of Claims About Payments to Media Figures
Nakwada also rejected claims suggesting that payments had been made to media figures under the pretense of “reconciliation efforts” through the state’s Security Trust Fund. He emphasized that the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal remains focused on restoring security across the state.
“This issue is being addressed with transparency and urgency due to its sensitive nature,” Nakwada said. “Though we have previously ignored fabricated lies aimed at distracting the government, the sensitivity of the security situation compels us to clarify.”
Firm Stance Against Negotiating with Bandits
The SSG reiterated that the Zamfara State Government maintains a strict policy of not negotiating with bandits or terrorists. He emphasized that the alleged memo, supposedly originating from his office and directed to Governor Lawal, was entirely fabricated.
“Our administration has been clear and firm in our approach to security challenges, and we have consistently refused to negotiate with terrorists,” Nakwada said.
He concluded by stating that the false documents were not only distractions but also attempts to undermine public trust in the state government’s efforts to restore peace.
“The fabricated document is an attempt to erode the trust and confidence that the people of Zamfara have in Gov. Lawal’s administration,” Nakwada added.
