The Safeguard Zamfara Coalition (SZC), has expressed deep disappointment and frustration toward the governors of Zamfara,Dauda Lawal and Katsina state,Dikko Umaru Radda for not attending a crucial meeting initiated by the chairman of the Northern Governors Forum with the National Security Adviser and Service Chiefs.
It was recalled that the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, convened a meeting with the Northern Governors’ Forum and Service Chiefs, including the Inspector General of Police and the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
The meeting, held behind closed doors on Thursday in Abuja, lasted for over four hours. After the meeting, the chairman of the forum, Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, spoke on the outcome.
The President General, Saminu Tukur, in a statement shared with journalists on Saturday, said the actions of Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara and Governor Umar Raddah of Katsina for failing to participate in the discussion could have potentially yielded solutions to the dire security situation.
According to him, these two governors, whose states have borne the brunt of the violence and bloodshed, had a responsibility to engage in dialogue and cooperation to safeguard the lives and well-being of their citizens.
The coalition noted that the governors’ stubborn reliance on civilian forces (Yan Sa Kai) to combat the security challenges has only exacerbated the crisis.
“The unregulated and often indiscriminate operations by the Yan Sa Kai have led to further violence and chaos, contributing to the deterioration of the security environment in the North-West region.
“We warn against any attempts by the Zamfara and Katsina governors to politicize the security issue at the expense of the lives and safety of the people.
“We emphasize that the security and well-being of the citizens should always remain the top priority, and warn the governors to set aside their personal interests and engage in meaningful efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
“The failure of Governor Lawal and Governor Radda to engage in the dialogue with the security chiefs reflects a troubling lack of commitment and leadership on their part.
“It is disheartening to see the governors of the worst-hit states turning a blind eye to opportunities for meaningful deliberations and cooperation, especially when the lives and security of their citizens are at stake.
“The governors must rise above petty politics and personal agendas and work with serious-minded genuinely concerned stakeholders towards finding lasting solutions that will bring peace and stability to the region.
Meanwhile, the two governors have yet to state the reason they refused to attend the meeting that would have been beneficial to their respective states.
