Viral video sparks debate on Zamfara security challenges

1 week ago 13

Northern Report

September 6, 2025 by Our Reporter

A viral video of Zamfara State governor, Dauda Lawal, speaking on the security situation in the state has triggered wide debate on the challenges of tackling banditry.

In the undated clip, where the governor spoke in Hausa, he explained that although his administration had procured 150 vehicles to support security agencies, he allegedly had no direct control over their deployment since such directives come from Abuja.

Governor Lawal also noted that with the resources at his disposal, he could track the movement of bandits but stressed that addressing the crisis required greater coordination and authority over security operatives.

He expressed confidence that if given more control, the issue could be resolved within two months.

“I swear to God wherever bandits are, we know. I know, I can show you on this phone wherever they are… I know, but we can do nothing,” he said. “If I am the one in power to give the directives, I swear this issue will come to an end in two months.”

Zamfara has remained one of the states most affected by banditry in Nigeria, with rural communities facing recurring attacks.

On August 23, gunmen invaded Gamdum Mallam and Ruwan Rana villages in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, killing two people and abducting more than 100 residents. Earlier in the month, another incident in Kauran Namoda left 24 people dead, 16 injured, and over 140 kidnapped.

Security experts say the video highlights the complexities of Nigeria’s security architecture, where state governors, though described as chief security officers of their states, lack direct control of security agencies.

Dr. Usman Shehu, a Kaduna-based researcher on violent conflicts, said the governor’s remarks underscored the need for reforms that would allow closer collaboration between federal and state authorities.

Meanwhile, discussions have reportedly begun at different levels of government on how to strengthen operations in Zamfara, with some suggesting a more coordinated national response to the crisis.

Governor Lawal has yet to formally respond to the debate generated by the video, but expectations are high among residents that stronger measures will be taken to restore peace and security in the state.