The Zamfara Conflict Resolution Concern Forum (ZCRC) has voiced strong concerns about the state government’s response to the kidnapping of female students at Gusau University and has called for a state of emergency to address the crisis.
In a statement issued by Chairman Tukur Sabi Gusau in Abuja, the group expressed dismay at the state government’s handling of the situation
He accused the government of not taking the matter seriously and of politicizing the security issues .
The group also cited recent video clips and photos showing state government officials negotiating with bandit leaders, a move they deemed contradictory to the government’s earlier stance against negotiating with criminals.
“We find it unfortunate that Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration is displaying hypocrisy in its approach to the security situation,” stated Tukur Sabi Gusau.
“We reiterate our demand for the federal government to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara state as the only viable option to address the crisis effectively.”
The group further criticized Governor Lawal’s leadership, citing a lack of preparedness, political will, and decisiveness in handling the crisis.
They pointed to recent footage of a government commissioner negotiating with bandits as evidence of the administration’s indecision and inconsistency during this critical time.
While the government appears to waver in its response, the families of the kidnapped students continue to suffer. They have repeatedly appealed to the government for swift and decisive action to rescue their loved ones.
The longer the government delays, the greater the danger faced by these innocent young women. The group called on all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, religious leaders, and the public, to unite in the effort to secure the safe release of the abducted students.
“As a society, we must come together with a common goal: to bring back our girls safely,” emphasized Dantani. “Only then can we claim justice has been served and our society is free from fear and insecurity.”
The group acknowledged that whether the federal government heeds their call to action remains uncertain. However, they emphasized that the safety and well-being of the kidnapped female students must be the top priority, and all possible efforts should be made to secure their release.
