The Federal Government has refuted allegations made by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, who claimed that federal officials engaged in secret negotiations with bandits in the state. Governor Lawal called for a thorough investigation into these alleged clandestine talks, expressing concern that they occurred without the state government's knowledge or involvement.
He questioned why such negotiations would occur without consulting the state government or other security agencies, especially when the state adopted a kinetic approach to combating banditry. Governor Lawal emphasised that Zamfara State had taken a firm stance against negotiating with criminals, as their top priority was eradicating banditry.
In response, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, dismissed the governor's claims as politically motivated and urged that they be disregarded. He emphasised that no federal government official was engaged in negotiations with bandits. However, he stated that the government remained committed to exploring avenues for de-escalating tension and restoring peace in areas affected by banditry.
The Federal University Gusau also confirmed the rescue of seven more abducted students, bringing the total number of rescued students to 14. The university management expressed gratitude for the support received from various stakeholders.
The Federal Government seeks to address security challenges while discouraging politicising sensitive matters.
