By Abubakar Yunusa
A Civil Society Organization, Patriot for Advancement of Peace and Social Development, has urged Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to account for his tenure’s accomplishments and stop criticizing Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.
“Since taking office, Lawal has relentlessly antagonized Matawalle,” said Sani Shinkafi, Executive Director of the organization.
Shinkafi highlighted Lawal’s recent appearance on Channels Television’s “Sunrise,” where he allegedly criticized state security agencies and Matawalle.
Public officers, particularly the president and governors, celebrated their one year in office, showcasing their achievements despite challenges.
“However, Governor Lawal used his appearance on Channels Television to cast aspersions on security agencies and his predecessor, Dr. Bello Matawalle,” Shinkafi said. He called this an insult to the people’s sensibilities.
Instead of detailing his own achievements over the past year, Lawal chose to ridicule the Minister of State for Defence, wasting valuable time and energy. The CSO accused Lawal of engaging in “politics of bitterness” and failing to deliver on his promises, particularly regarding security improvements within 100 days of taking office.
“One year later, bandits have overrun the state, and the governor blames security agencies for his failures,” Shinkafi added.
The CSO emphasized that it was time for governance, not blame games, urging Lawal to improve the lives of Zamfara’s people. “Allow the Minister of State for Defence to carry out his national assignment,” the statement urged.
Shinkafi praised Matawalle’s efforts in combating banditry, citing his quick response to various security incidents despite Lawal’s lack of cooperation.
“Matawalle is one of the best-performing ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s government,” he stated, detailing numerous instances where Matawalle directed military actions to address security threats in the state.
Shinkafi criticized Lawal for not commiserating with affected communities or cooperating with federal efforts to improve security. “Matawalle has shown strong commitment to ending insecurity in Zamfara despite Lawal’s non-cooperation,” he said.
The CSO called for a united effort to tackle the state’s security challenges, stressing that attacking Matawalle would not solve Zamfara’s issues. “It’s time to build a strong, united, progressive, and prosperous society,” the statement concluded.
