The Citizens United Against Terrorism (CUAT) has accused Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State of having a strong connection with bandits.
The group also asked the governor to explain the source of a video which attempted to link predecessor and Minister of State Defence, Bello Matawalle, to banditry.
The Citizens United Against Terrorism made this known at a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja.
In his address, Comr. Obinna Francis said the state has witnessed a surge in attacks by bandits who are allegedly receiving protection, benefits, and favours from the governor.
He noted that alarming reports have surfaced indicating that bandits are now utilizing more advanced weaponry than ever before, exceeding the arsenal previously seized from vanquished bandit groups during the preceding administration.
The group cited the video released by a notorious bandit leader supposedly implicating the Minister of State Defence as the handiwork of the governor.
“This alarming revelation has sparked widespread concern and scrutiny, prompting questions about the potential collusion between political figures and criminal entities,” he added.
“A pertinent inquiry arises regarding the circumstances under which the spokesperson of the Governor of Zamfara State was the first to view the video, raising suspicions about their possible connections with the bandits.
“The fact that the incriminating video, featuring the Minister of Defence and former Governor of Zamfara State, surfaced publicly through the spokesperson of the current Governor of Zamfara, warrants a thorough examination.”
The Citizens United Against Terrorism also expressed concern over Governor Lawal’s inability to stem the tide of banditry, despite his oath of office to serve and protect the people.
“We firmly believe that this situation warrants a heightened scrutiny of the current governor’s actions, rather than solely focusing on the past administration’s tenure,” Francis said.
The group accused Governor Lawal of abandoning his duties and absconding to Enugu State, where he indulged in celebratory festivities, while the security situation in Zamfara continued to deteriorate.
“We regret to say that Governor Dauda Lawal has proven himself unworthy of leading a state like Zamfara, and his despicable actions in the face of these recent events demand a thorough and rigorous investigation into his alleged connections with the bandits responsible for the chaos,” Francis said.
The group, therefore, demanded that Governor Lawal provide a comprehensive explanation to the people of Zamfara regarding the nature of his relationship with the bandits and seek clarity on the concrete measures he is taking to address the escalating crisis.
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