Lawal Rejects Dialogue With Bandits as 50 Zamfara Elders Remain Captive

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has reiterated his opposition to negotiating with bandits, following the abduction of 50 community elders who reportedly embarked on a peace mission to a notorious criminal camp in Maradun Local Government Area.

The elders, drawn from Magamin Diddi village, were reportedly kidnapped earlier in June after visiting the camp of a bandit leader identified as Jammo, who operates within the Muntsira Forest.

According to reports, the delegation had voluntarily organised the meeting in a bid to secure a peace agreement that would allow residents to return safely to their farms during the ongoing farming season.

However, the peace effort ended in tragedy as the armed group allegedly rejected the proposal and held all 50 delegates captive.

The incident has sparked widespread reactions across the state, with many residents questioning the worsening security situation and expressing concern over the continued captivity of the elders.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Governor Lawal distanced his administration from the peace mission and criticised those involved for undertaking such a move without government approval.

“They did not inform the authorities before embarking on such a dangerous step,” the governor said, insisting that the delegation acted independently.

While condemning the actions of the bandits, Lawal maintained that his administration has never supported dialogue with criminal groups and has no intention of changing its position.

“As I said, who sent them to negotiate? It certainly was not the government. We have consistently stated that we do not support negotiations with terrorists,” he said.

The governor disclosed that the state government was investigating the incident but stressed that negotiating with bandits contradicts his administration’s security policy.

Lawal argued that previous attempts by former administrations to reconcile with armed groups failed to produce lasting peace, adding that such negotiations often empower criminals rather than discourage them.

He insisted that sustained military operations remain the most effective strategy for restoring security across Zamfara.

Despite his stance, opinions among residents remain divided. While some support the government’s refusal to negotiate, others believe dialogue is necessary to end persistent killings, kidnappings and attacks on farming communities.

The governor, however, expressed confidence that ongoing security operations have significantly reduced attacks in many areas and contributed to improved agricultural activities across the state.

He pledged to continue supporting efforts aimed at eliminating banditry and restoring lasting peace to Zamfara communities.