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| President Bola Ahmed Tinubu |
Zamfara State stands as a testament to resilience amid adversity. However, the current security situation has spiraled into a crisis that demands immediate federal intervention.
The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has raised an urgent alarm, imploring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the region, stressing that the escalating violence, rampant kidnappings, and pervasive banditry have rendered the lives of Zamfara’s residents precarious.
NAN in a statement issued by it's Chairman Salihu Suleiman said, the situation illuminate the gravity of the situation, the failures of local governance, and the pressing need for a concerted federal response.
The Chairman noted that over recent months, Zamfara State has experienced a resurgence of violence that has left communities traumatized. Reports indicate that armed groups have grown increasingly audacious, launching coordinated attacks on villages, displacing families, and instilling a pervasive sense of fear among the populace.
It further averred that the initial successes of federal troops in combating banditry now seem like distant memories, overshadowed by the current wave of violence that has spiraled out of control.
"The statistics are sobering: thousands have been displaced, lives have been lost, and the fabric of society has been torn apart. The psychological toll on the people of Zamfara cannot be overstated. Families live in constant fear, children are deprived of education, and economic activities have come to a standstill. The security crisis has morphed into a humanitarian catastrophe, necessitating an urgent and robust response.
"At the core of this escalating crisis lies the apparent inaction of the state government, led by Governor Dauda Lawal Dare. NAN expresses grave concern regarding the governor's preparedness and capacity to confront the bandits who have wreaked havoc across the state.
"Instead of prioritizing the security and welfare of the citizens, the governor appears more focused on the misappropriation of public resources. This negligence has not only exacerbated the security challenges but has also eroded public trust in the government’s ability to protect its citizens".
NAN noted that citizens of Zamfara find themselves in a precarious position, abandoned by their elected officials who have failed to provide the necessary leadership in times of crisis. The lack of decisive action from the state government has created a vacuum that has been filled by violence and fear.
"It is incumbent upon the state leadership to prioritize the safety and security of the populace, yet the current administration seems ill-equipped to do so.
"In light of the deteriorating security situation, NAN's call for a state of emergency is not merely a plea for attention; it is a desperate cry for immediate action to address a growing humanitarian crisis. Declaring a state of emergency would facilitate the mobilization of federal resources, including military and law enforcement personnel, to restore order and protect vulnerable communities.
Federal intervention is crucial in situations where local governance has failed to provide security and stability. The capacity of federal resources to address widespread violence cannot be understated. A coordinated response involving military, police, and humanitarian agencies is essential to restore peace and provide much-needed support to the affected communities.
Moreover, the declaration of a state of emergency would send a clear signal to the people of Zamfara that their plight has not gone unnoticed. It would reaffirm the commitment of the federal government to protect its citizens and restore law and order in a region that has suffered for far too long.
"The humanitarian implications of the ongoing crisis are profound. As violence escalates, the basic needs of the populace—food, shelter, and security—are increasingly compromised. Displaced families are often left without adequate support, facing hunger and deprivation. The psychological impact of living under constant threat cannot be overlooked, as the trauma of violence seeps into the very fabric of community life".
NAN further opined that the longer the crisis persists, the more entrenched the challenges become. Children are unable to attend school, and livelihoods are shattered and the implications extend beyond immediate security concerns; they threaten the long-term stability and development of the region.
"A comprehensive approach that includes humanitarian assistance, community rebuilding, and long-term security strategies is essential to address the multifaceted challenges faced by Zamfara State.
This call to action extends beyond the corridors of power. It is a collective responsibility that demands the involvement of all stakeholders—citizens, civil society organizations, and relevant authorities.
"The people of Zamfara deserve a government that prioritizes their safety and security. Advocacy for the rights and protection of citizens must be amplified, and the voices of those affected by violence must be heard.
"As we stand at this critical juncture, it is essential that we recognize the humanity of those affected by violence and insecurity. The people of Zamfara deserve a government that prioritizes their safety and well-being. It is time for all stakeholders to come together, united in the pursuit of peace, stability, and justice for the people of Zamfara State. The time for action is now.
The failure of Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to act decisively against the bandits underscores the urgent need for federal intervention" the statement added.
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