Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has stated that he would only negotiate with bandits if they stop killing people and surrender their weapons.

 

This marks a shift from his administration’s earlier hardline stance. In July 2024, his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Mobilisation, Alhaji Faruk Ahmad, declared that no internal or external pressure would force the government into reconciliation with bandits, reaffirming their commitment to fighting them.

 

However, in a recent interview with BBC Hausa, Governor Lawal acknowledged that dialogue was not entirely off the table but stressed that any negotiations must be based on truth and honesty. He emphasized the need to consider the plight of victims rather than focusing solely on the bandits.

 

Meanwhile, the government has reported significant progress in the fight against banditry, with over 50 terrorists killed in the Tungar Fulani area of Zurmi/Shinkafi. Several notorious bandit leaders, including those loyal to Bello Turji, have also been eliminated.

 

Governor Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s resolve, stating that bandits must either lay down their arms or face decisive military action.