‘Who Sent Them?’ — Zamfara Governor Distances Government From 50 Elders Kidnapped During Bandit Talks
admin
June 18, 2026
4 views
*Zamfara Governor Distances Government From Kidnapped Elders, Asks: ‘Who Sent Them To Negotiate With Bandits?’
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has disowned efforts by some community elders who reportedly attempted to negotiate with bandits, insisting that his administration has never supported dialogue with terrorists.
The governor made the remarks in a Hausa-language interview with the BBC, monitored by SaharaReporters, while responding to questions about the recent kidnapping of over 50 elders from Magamin Diddi village in Maradun Local Government Area.
The elders had reportedly embarked on a peace mission aimed at reconciling with the bandits in the hope that residents would be able to return to their farms during the current farming season. However, they were allegedly abducted during the meeting.
Reacting to the incident, Lawal questioned the motive behind the initiative, stressing that it was not sanctioned by the government.
"Who sent them to negotiate? Certainly not the government," the governor said. "We have consistently maintained that we do not support negotiations with terrorists. I heard about the reports, but I do not even know who those involved are. We are investigating the matter, but it is wrong for people to pursue negotiations when the government has clearly rejected that approach."
Lawal reiterated that his stance against negotiating with criminal groups has remained unchanged since assuming office.
"From the outset, my position has been clear: I will not negotiate with terrorists. That remains my position today. It is neither my policy nor will it ever be," he said.
The governor's comments come amid concerns over renewed attacks in some communities despite claims by his administration that security has improved significantly across the state.
According to Lawal, although the fight against terrorism and banditry is yet to achieve complete success, there has been noticeable progress, particularly in boosting agricultural activities.
"We have not achieved 100 percent success, but there has been progress. Our responsibility is to protect lives and property. Agricultural production in Zamfara last year reached levels not seen in recent times, largely because of improved security," he said.
He added that no government can eliminate terrorism overnight, noting that intensified military operations have forced many criminal groups to relocate and attack areas they consider vulnerable.
"Terrorism is not unique to Zamfara. It is a challenge affecting many places. But I can assure you that the measures we have taken have significantly reduced attacks. By Allah's grace, we will eventually overcome this challenge," the governor stated.*
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has disowned efforts by some community elders who reportedly attempted to negotiate with bandits, insisting that his administration has never supported dialogue with terrorists.
The governor made the remarks in a Hausa-language interview with the BBC, monitored by SaharaReporters, while responding to questions about the recent kidnapping of over 50 elders from Magamin Diddi village in Maradun Local Government Area.
The elders had reportedly embarked on a peace mission aimed at reconciling with the bandits in the hope that residents would be able to return to their farms during the current farming season. However, they were allegedly abducted during the meeting.
Reacting to the incident, Lawal questioned the motive behind the initiative, stressing that it was not sanctioned by the government.
"Who sent them to negotiate? Certainly not the government," the governor said. "We have consistently maintained that we do not support negotiations with terrorists. I heard about the reports, but I do not even know who those involved are. We are investigating the matter, but it is wrong for people to pursue negotiations when the government has clearly rejected that approach."
Lawal reiterated that his stance against negotiating with criminal groups has remained unchanged since assuming office.
"From the outset, my position has been clear: I will not negotiate with terrorists. That remains my position today. It is neither my policy nor will it ever be," he said.
The governor's comments come amid concerns over renewed attacks in some communities despite claims by his administration that security has improved significantly across the state.
According to Lawal, although the fight against terrorism and banditry is yet to achieve complete success, there has been noticeable progress, particularly in boosting agricultural activities.
"We have not achieved 100 percent success, but there has been progress. Our responsibility is to protect lives and property. Agricultural production in Zamfara last year reached levels not seen in recent times, largely because of improved security," he said.
He added that no government can eliminate terrorism overnight, noting that intensified military operations have forced many criminal groups to relocate and attack areas they consider vulnerable.
"Terrorism is not unique to Zamfara. It is a challenge affecting many places. But I can assure you that the measures we have taken have significantly reduced attacks. By Allah's grace, we will eventually overcome this challenge," the governor stated.*
Leave a Comment