Zamfara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has accused the minister of State, Defense, Bello Mohammed Matawalle of using his position to coerce the state government to dialogue with bandits’ leaders.
This was contained in a statement issued by the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Halliru Andi, describing the former governor’s effort as misguided and disingenuous.
He said, “it contradicts the PDP-led government’s commitment to a firm and non-negotiable stance against terrorism.”
The PDP also debunked a viral memo alleging that Governor Dauda Lawal approved the sum of over N1.3billion to finance reconciliation efforts with bandits’ leaders in the State.
The statement described the memo as entirely false, orchestrated by the opposition APC, and as a blatant attempt to discredit Governor Lawal’s genuine efforts to combat insecurity.
“This misinformation is a desperate attempt to undermine Governor Lawal’s firm stance against negotiating with terrorists,” it claimed.
It further stressed that the Governor had consistently opposed reconciliation with bandits, deeming it as a superficial solution that fails to address the root of the problem.
Instead, the statement called on the APC-led administration in the country to use its control over the military and police forces to confront bandits with decisive action.
“The federal Government’s reluctance to take forceful measures, coupled with their preference for negotiations, highlights their lack of political will and ineffective approach,” the party added.
It also asserted that former Governor Matawalle, who previously entertained and made inducements to bandits’ leaders, during his tenure, now seeks to use his position as Minister of State, Defense to coerce the State government into negotiations with terrorists.
“This effort is not only misguided, but also disingenuous, as it contradicts the PDP-led government’s commitment to a firm and non-negotiable stance against terrorism.
“Their tenure was marked by failure to effectively address banditry, and their current actions only further demonstrate their ineptitude.
“It is time for APC in Zamfara State to focus on constructive solutions rather than peddling falsehoods. The people of the State deserve better leadership and a concerted effort to address the security challenges we face.
“Governor Lawal and the PDP government are dedicated to pursuing effective strategies to end banditry and ensure the safety of our State.
“We urge the public to disregard these baseless claims and urge all stakeholders to support genuine and transparent efforts to combat banditry, rather than engaging in baseless and harmful accusations,” it added.
Bandits: Zamfara PDP accuses Defense minister, Matawalle of coercing govt into negotiations
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