Amid escalating security challenges in Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal has announced an indefinite suspension of all political activities and rallies across the state.
The directive was disclosed in a statement issued by Mustapha Jafaru Kaura, the Senior Special Assistant on Broadcast Media, Press, and Public Affairs to the Governor. According to the statement, the decision was prompted by the worsening security situation in the state, particularly following a recent security breach in Maru Local Government Area.
“This is to inform the public, particularly politicians across all political divides in the state, that due to the precarious security situation, including the recent incident in Maru Local Government Area, and the fact that the political season has not yet kicked off across the country, the Executive Governor of the state, Dr. Dauda Lawal, has banned all political activities and rallies in the state until further notice,” the statement read.
The ban takes immediate effect, and security agencies have been directed to enforce strict compliance, with warnings that any individual or group that violates the order will face consequences.
Ongoing Security Challenges in Zamfara
Zamfara State continues to battle severe security threats posed by armed groups commonly referred to as bandits. These criminal elements are notorious for engaging in kidnappings, community attacks, and illegal mining operations, causing widespread instability in the region.
In December 2024, the federal government lifted a five-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara, citing improved security conditions. The ban, initially imposed in 2019 due to persistent bandit attacks, was lifted to rejuvenate the state’s mining sector, which is rich in gold, lithium, and copper.
Despite these efforts, insecurity remains a significant concern. However, Governor Dauda Lawal recently reassured stakeholders, including the World Bank, that his administration is making steady progress in combating banditry and restoring peace to Zamfara State.