Insecurity: We’ll never enter peace deals with terrorists – Gov Lawal vows

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, says his administration will never enter into any peace deal with terrorists, insisting that the government is stronger than terrorists.

The governor made the remarks during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service.

According to him, it is an offence in Zamfara State to broker peace agreements with bandits, stating that his administration is vehemently against it.

Lawal stressed that the state government has consistently maintained a hard-line stance against negotiations with armed groups terrorising communities across the state.

His remark followed reports that some individuals recently entered into a truce arrangement with bandits operating in parts of the state, adding that those involved acted independently and did not represent the position of the Zamfara State government.

The governor reiterated that his administration remains committed to a strategy centred on military operations and law enforcement actions rather than dialogue with criminal elements. 

Lawal argued that previous attempts at negotiating with bandits had failed to produce lasting peace and often emboldened criminal groups.

“Seeking a truce with bandits is not my opinion and never will be,” the governor said, reiterating that his government would not compromise with individuals responsible for killings, kidnappings and other violent crimes across Zamfara communities.