Gusau, Zamfara State – February 10, 2025 – Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has indicated a potential shift in his administration’s policy regarding negotiations with bandits. While previously maintaining a hard-line stance against any reconciliation, Governor Lawal has now stated that he is open to dialogue, but only under specific conditions.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa service, Governor Lawal emphasized that any talks with bandits must be based on truth and honesty. He stressed the importance of considering the victims of banditry, stating, “A number of people have been harmed, others have lost their parents and wives. Therefore, it is important to take into account their plight… rather than always solely focusing on the bandits.”
The Governor clarified that negotiations would only be considered if the bandits cease their violent activities and surrender their weapons. This represents a departure from his administration’s previous position, as articulated by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Mobilisation, Alhaji Faruk Ahmad, in July 2024. At that time, Ahmad had declared that the government would not negotiate with bandits and would continue to fight them.
Governor Lawal also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to combat banditry, claiming significant successes. He reported that over 50 terrorists were killed on Friday in Tungar Fulani, along the Zurmi/Shinkafi axis. He also stated that several key bandits loyal to Bello Turji, including Sani Mainasara, Sani Black, Kachallah Auta, Audu Gajere, Kabiru Jangero, and Dangajere, among 65 others, have been eliminated.
The Governor affirmed his commitment to continuing the fight against banditry until it is suppressed, urging bandits to either lay down their weapons or face continued decisive action from the government. This conditional openness to negotiation suggests a potential shift in strategy, balancing military pressure with the possibility of peaceful resolution.
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