The Zamfara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has accused the Minister of State, Defense, Bello Mohammed Matawalle of using his position to coerce the state government to dialogue with bandits’ leaders.
In a statement issued by the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Halliru Andi, the PDP described the former governor’s effort as “misguided and disingenuous” and 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 N1.3 billion to finance reconciliation efforts with bandits’ leaders in the State, describing it as “entirely false” and “orchestrated by the opposition APC” to discredit Governor Lawal’s efforts to combat insecurity.
“This misinformation is a desperate attempt to undermine Governor Lawal’s firm stance against negotiating with terrorists,” the statement claimed.
The PDP further stressed that Governor Lawal had consistently opposed reconciliation with bandits, deeming it a “superficial solution that fails to address the root of the problem.” Instead, the party called on the APC-led administration 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.
The PDP 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.”
The party concluded by urging the public to disregard the “baseless claims” and support genuine efforts to combat banditry.
It added, “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.”