Zamfara group calls for state of emergency

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Zamfara Conflict Resolution Concern Forum (ZCRC), has strongly criticized the handling of the issue regarding the kidnapped female students of Gusau University by the state government, and called for state of emergency.
The group warned that the government is not taking the matter seriously, but rather, is politicizing the security situation.
The group in a statement by its Chairman, Tukur Sabi Gusau, in Abuja, was reacting to video clip and photos indicating that officials of the state government were negotiating with bandits leaders.
“This is in contrast to the government’s earlier opposition to negotiations with criminals. It is unfortunate that the government of Dauda Lawal is being hypocritical. We reiterate our demand for the federal government to declare a state of emergency in the state as the only remaining option if it is really serious about the situation here.
“All indicators of failure in Governor Lawal’s capacity, preparedness, or political will to handle the situation have manifested. The recent footage of his Commissioner negotiating with the bandits is further testament of his indecision, flip flops and instability as leader of a state in crisis.
“It is rather unfortunate that while the Governor toys with this situation, the families of the kidnapped students are living in agony and despair. They have been calling on the government in vain to act swiftly and decisively to rescue their loved ones.
“The longer it takes for the government to take action, the more dangerous the situation becomes for these innocent young women. It is imperative that all stakeholders stop relying on the state government and come together to find a solution to this crisis.”