By
Anas Sani Anka
I have read the press statement by Zamfara State Commissioner for Information, Muhammad Mahmud Dantawasa, where he categorically acknowledged that the issue of security is on the exclusive list, meaning “it is an exclusive right of the federal government to provide security for the lives and properties of Nigerian citizens.”
For some time, those speaking on behalf of the Zamfara state government have used the excuse that despite promising security, they now realize it is beyond their power, as the issue of insecurity has worsened in Zamfara.
For me, this confession could serve as a very good beginning toward finding a pathway to solving the insecurity facing the state , because at least those conferred with the exclusive powers can be allowed to do what is needed to end the carnage.
I think it is high time Governor Dauda Lawal adopts the El-Rufai model of allowing the federal government to do its job of securing the state, and where it fails, it will be openly clear that the federal government has failed.
Those advising Governor Dauda not to accept a peace accord with the bandits, as allegedly initiated by the federal government, are only leading him into more problems. Since the Governor himself acknowledged his own limitations, he should lower his hands and allow those in charge to do whatever they feel can bring lasting peace.
The way things are going, the governor’s refusal to accept a peace accord with the bandits cannot change anything. If you don’t have jurisdiction over an issue, you cannot assume it, and insisting otherwise will only drag you into more complex problems.
When I listened to Sheikh Musa Asadu Sunnah in his interview with Radio France International, I wondered why the Zamfara Governor was being pushed to assume jurisdiction where he does not have any.
I understand the concern of the Governor and his lieutenants; they promised security during their campaign, and now that security cannot be achieved. For me, this is an experience that will significantly impact the dynamics of the 2027 election.
I am sure no gubernatorial candidate, regardless of their party, can face the people of Zamfara and promise them security—not even the current Governor. As he campaigned on the issue of insecurity, he has now openly admitted that what he promised the people of Zamfara is beyond his constitutional powers. Perhaps he did not realize this initially, or the situation was more complex than he understood.
For now, both the citizens of Zamfara and the Governor’s supporters must accept the simple reality that the Governor’s hands are tied, and he cannot perform any miracles because the Constitution has limited his powers.
If we continue to pretend a million times, we will only end up blaming the sitting Governor and anyone who comes after him unless the Constitution of Nigeria is amended. The powers of the Governor over state security are complementary.
Zamfara is in crisis, and it’s not the time for us to engage in a blame game, but to come together to chart a way forward for the state.
It is also high time for Governor Dauda Lawal and Minister Matawalle to set aside their political differences and work together to save the state from the brutal killings occurring in Zamfara.
Regardless of a lack of conscience, no one can dispute the simple fact that nowhere is safe in Zamfara, and if anyone wants to pretend otherwise, it is between them and their creator.
May God bring lasting peace to Zamfara!
