Zamfara attacks: Gov Lawal orders security overhaul, vows to crush bandits

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has expressed sympathy to communities and families affected by recent bandit attacks across the state, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, the governor convened and presided over an emergency security meeting on Friday at the Government House conference room in Gusau.

According to the statement, the meeting brought together heads of security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to address the rising wave of insecurity in the state.

“In his administration’s resolve to end the insecurity affecting Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal convened an emergency security meeting with all heads of security agencies and relevant stakeholders in the state,” the statement read.

It added that the meeting highlights the shared commitment and collective responsibility of the state government and security agencies to safeguard lives and property.

Governor Lawal charged security chiefs to urgently review the current security architecture and implement coordinated strategies to counter emerging threats.

He called for heightened vigilance, strengthened intelligence gathering, and immediate, joint countermeasures to prevent further attacks.

The governor further urged security agencies to intensify efforts to deny criminal elements freedom of action and decisively neutralise threats across affected communities.

He also commiserated with security personnel who have lost their lives or sustained injuries in the line of duty, assuring them of continued logistical, operational, and institutional support to enhance their effectiveness.

The emergency meeting follows renewed bandit attacks in parts of the state, including the February 19 raid on Dutsin Dan Ajiya village in Anka Local Government Area, where dozens of residents were reportedly killed.

Residents said heavily armed assailants stormed the community, blocked access routes, and opened fire on villagers during the hours-long attack, with several persons reportedly abducted and others still unaccounted for.