Zamfara elders tackle gov Lawal of deceit over banditry victim support

A group of concerned Zamfara elders has issued a scathing rebuke of Governor Dauda Lawal’s handling of armed banditry victims, accusing him of spreading false claims about free medical treatment provided to those injured in attacks.

In a statement signed by spokesperson Hon Aliyu Muhammad Gummi, the group challenged the governor to provide concrete evidence of victims treated at state hospitals without charge, as recently claimed during an interview.

Gummi described Governor Lawal’s remarks as “the highest level of insincerity”, accusing him of misleading the public while failing to fulfil campaign promises made ahead of the 2023 elections.

Lawal had pledged to eliminate banditry within two months of assuming office, but the group claims the security situation has only worsened.

“The governor is preparing to celebrate two years in office on a foundation of failed promises,” Gummi said.

“Instead of providing solace to victims, he travels across states and countries enjoying life while the people suffer.”

The elders particularly took issue with the governor’s claim that victims of gunshot wounds were being treated free of charge at Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital and the Federal Medical Centre in Gusau.

Gummi, who said he personally visited Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital recently, reported witnessing victims being denied admission due to lack of funds — in some cases, resulting in death.

“No support has come from the government. The victims are on their own,” he said.

The elders called on journalists who interviewed the governor to have verified the claims, especially regarding the availability of treatment for victims from remote parts of the state such as Tsafe Local Government.

They further demanded that the state government or the named hospitals publish a full list of beneficiaries, including names, villages, and details of incidents, along with receipts or payment vouchers as proof.

“Zamfara people are not fools. The governor must apologise for misleading the public, stop the propaganda, and partner with genuine stakeholders to address the insecurity,” Gummi added.