Zamfara abducted students: Gender protection group frowns at governor’s attitude

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Girl-child Right and Freedom Protection Centre, a gender-based non-governmental organization, frowns upon the Governor’s attitude of abandoning innocent women for a personal trip abroad.

The group expressed its concern over the fact that Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has seemingly left the people in the midst of such serious crises on a day when several students of Zamfara State University were kidnapped by bandits. This action has understandably provoked the ire of gender protection groups and other concerned individuals.

Lynda Temitope Ajayi, Chairperson of the group, stated in a Monday issued statement that the recent kidnapping of female students of Gusau University has shed light on a distressing issue that demands urgent attention.

Mrs. Ajayi said, “The attitude of the Zamfara State Governor, who appears to have abandoned his people in the midst of such a serious crisis for a foreign trip on the day of the unforgettable abduction, is described as callous, indecorous, insensitive, inhuman, indecent, uncivilized, and unforgivable.”

She continued, “Let us remind the Zamfara Governor that he holds a position of power and authority by the mandate of the people, and one of his primary responsibilities is to protect and serve the people he leads. When faced with the grave threat of kidnapping and violence, it is disheartening to see a governor display apathy or negligence towards his constituents as brazenly as the Zamfara Governor did.

“It is callous and insensitive that in such a situation that demands strong and decisive action, the Governor retreated, leaving his people vulnerable and desperate,” Mrs. Ajayi pointed out.

She emphasized that a crisis of this magnitude requires leaders to stand firm and actively participate in designing effective strategies to address immediate concerns and prevent future incidents.

“It is discouraging to witness leaders shying away from their responsibilities and failing to provide the necessary support and protection to their communities.”

She noted that the GRFPC is particularly disheartened by this attitude exhibited by the Governor, as the Group is acutely aware of the additional vulnerability faced by women and girls in situations of conflict and displacement.

“We expect leaders with conscience to prioritize the safety and well-being of all citizens, regardless of their gender. Such abandonment not only perpetuates a sense of fear and insecurity among the affected population but also undermines trust in leadership.

“It is imperative that leaders demonstrate empathy, compassion, and genuine dedication to the welfare of their people, especially during times of crisis. Their actions and engagement can play a vital role in restoring hope, confidence, and a sense of security within communities.

“In times like these, responsible leaders require the necessary courage, political will, and strong resolve, all of which the Zamfara Governor apparently lacks, in order to prioritize the safety of their people and actively participate in measures that seek to address the situation once and for all.

“Only by doing so can leaders begin to rebuild trust, protect the vulnerable, and pave the way for a safer and more secure future.”