The Coalition for Democracy and Development has called on President Bola Tinubu to impose a six-month state of emergency in Zamfara State, citing deteriorating governance, worsening insecurity, and economic instability under the current administration.
At a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the group’s convener, Ibrahim Yakubu, accused the state government of systematically undermining democratic institutions, citing the prolonged suspension of 18 state lawmakers as particularly alarming.
The CDD highlighted two key incidents:
– The 13-month suspension of 10 Zamfara State Assembly members who raised security concerns
– The subsequent suspension of 8 additional lawmakers for similar criticisms
“This has crippled the legislative chamber and denied the people of Zamfara their right to effective representation,” Yakubu stated. “The suspension of lawmakers simply for performing their oversight functions represents a dangerous erosion of democracy.”
The coalition further alleged that unauthorized mining activities were exacerbating the state’s problems:
“Illegal mining operations continue unchecked, depriving Zamfara of vital revenue while fueling insecurity. These resources should benefit the people, not line private pockets,” Yakubu asserted.
The CDD framed its emergency rule request as a necessary reset for the troubled state:
“A six-month emergency period is essential to restore order, address governance challenges, and pave the way for a return to democratic processes,” Yakubu declared. “This is not a call made lightly; it is a demand born out of necessity.”
The group outlined three critical needs for federal action:
1. Securing state resources from exploitation
2. Restoring functional governance structures
3. Implementing immediate security measures
Yakubu warned that the Zamfara crisis threatens national stability:
“The current trajectory threatens not only Zamfara but the entire nation. Half-measures and empty promises are no longer an option—strong, decisive action is now required.”
The CDD emphasized that emergency rule should be transitional: “This is about creating conditions for genuine democracy to flourish, not suspending it indefinitely. The people of Zamfara deserve leadership that upholds the rule of law.”
As of press time, neither the Zamfara State government nor the Presidency had responded to the CDD’s demands.