In a firm rebuttal to media reports, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has refuted claims of a mass kidnapping incident in the Maradun Local Government Area. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Governor Lawal dismissed the alleged abduction of over 50 women and children by bandits in Kakin Dawa village as unverified and inaccurate.
“I am not aware of such an incident,” Governor Lawal stated emphatically. “I have not received any reports of 50 people being kidnapped in Maradun. Whoever shared this information is misinformed.”
The Zamfara State Police Command, responding to the initial reports, had stated that additional operatives were deployed to the area to address security concerns. Governor Lawal, however, maintained that the state has seen a significant reduction in banditry and kidnapping due to coordinated efforts with security agencies, including the police and military.
Progress in Security Efforts
Governor Lawal highlighted that Zamfara State has witnessed a sharp decline in major kidnapping incidents over the past six months. While acknowledging the existence of isolated security challenges, he emphasized the progress made in curbing rampant violence compared to previous years when reports of large-scale killings and abductions were frequent.
“In the past, it was almost a daily occurrence to hear about hundreds being killed or kidnapped. Today, while challenges remain, we are actively addressing them, and the situation is not what it used to be,” he explained.
Rejecting Negotiations with Bandits
Governor Lawal made it clear that his administration has no intention of negotiating with bandits. He asserted that dialogue with armed groups should only occur from a position of strength, not desperation or weakness.
“My stance has been consistent: I will not negotiate with bandits. Our approach focuses on enforcing law and order to ensure lasting peace,” the governor said.
On Tax Reform Controversy
The governor also addressed the controversial tax reform bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He expressed concerns about the potential impact of these reforms on financially vulnerable states, warning that some may struggle to survive if the bills are implemented without thorough assessment.
“Tax reform has both benefits and risks. It’s crucial to study the implications carefully to avoid long-term harm. We are engaging with relevant stakeholders to determine the best course of action,” Governor Lawal stated.
The proposed tax reforms have drawn widespread criticism, with northern governors and the National Economic Council opposing sections of the legislation. Governor Lawal echoed these concerns, advocating for a more cautious approach to safeguard the economic stability of states like Zamfara.
Governor Dauda Lawal’s strong stance against misinformation, bandit negotiations, and rushed tax reforms underscores his administration’s commitment to protecting the interests of Zamfara’s citizens while fostering sustainable development in the face of complex challenges.
