Fresh Banditry Attacks Leave Zamfara Residents in Distress as Calls for Federal Action Grow
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Renewed Violence Sparks Outrage in Zamfara
Fresh attacks by armed bandits have once again thrown Zamfara communities into turmoil, with residents accusing both federal and state governments of neglect and inaction in the face of growing insecurity. The latest violence, which occurred in Godai village, Bukkuyum Local Government Area, around 3:40 a.m. on Sunday, reportedly saw bandits abduct at least 12 persons, according to security expert Zagazola Makama.
Locals lamented that the assaults have become predictable, claiming bandits often shift operations to neighbouring areas after peace agreements are signed elsewhere.
“This is their usual pattern,” one community leader told journalists. “After the peace deal in Katsina last Saturday, we knew Zamfara would be their next target because we share boundaries.”
Residents Express Frustration Over Government Response
In Kaura Namoda, residents voiced strong discontent with both tiers of government, accusing authorities of double standards in security deployment.
“We are tired of the game the two governments are playing. We want peace to return so we can go back to our farms and markets,” lamented Muhammad Tukur Isa. “If the government can deploy massive security for elections, why can’t they do the same to protect our lives?”
Another resident, Alhaji Bello Yusuf Tsafe, called on the Minister of State for Defence and Governor Dauda Lawal to put aside differences and forge a united front against insecurity.
“They need each other. Until they put their heads together, Zamfara people will continue to suffer,” he said.
Governor Lawal Stands Firm Against Negotiations
Governor Dauda Lawal, during condolence visits to communities ravaged by banditry in August, reaffirmed his administration’s decision not to negotiate with criminal groups.
“We will not negotiate with those who murder innocent citizens. They have never shown sincerity, and we will not legitimise their actions by engaging them,” the governor declared through his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris.
Call for Federal Troop Deployment
Alhaji Mustapha Jafaru Kaura, the governor’s Special Assistant on Broadcast Media, urged the federal government to replicate the kind of military mobilisation seen during recent by-elections in Zamfara.
“During the elections, they deployed three battalions—about 3,000 soldiers—with heavy weapons, Armoured Personnel Carriers, and senior police officers to protect votes in just six wards. Why can’t they do the same to protect lives?” Kaura queried.
He accused the federal authorities of leaving troops idle without proper directives while bandits continue to wreak havoc across several northern states, including Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kaduna.
What’s Next for Zamfara?
As attacks escalate, pressure is mounting on both the federal and state governments to adopt a more coordinated approach. Residents continue to demand stronger security measures, with calls for permanent military bases and intelligence-driven operations to end the cycle of violence.
For now, fear grips communities across Zamfara as hopes for lasting peace remain uncertain.
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