- Fifty Zamfara elders were abducted after attempting to negotiate peace with bandits
- Governor Dauda Lawal said the mission was unauthorised and rejected dialogue with criminals
- The incident has sparked renewed debate over how to tackle insecurity in the state
Tension has continued to rise in Zamfara State after about 50 community elders who travelled to negotiate peace with bandits were reportedly taken hostage in Maradun Local Government Area.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the elders were said to have gone voluntarily to meet a notorious bandit leader operating in the Muntsira Forest in an attempt to reach a peace agreement that would allow residents to safely return to farming ahead of the planting season. However, the meeting reportedly went wrong, and the group was detained by the armed gang.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Federal Lawmaker Yaya Tongo Dies In Abuja Hospital
- Rep. Wale Raji Celebrates Alhaja Aduke Salimot Seriki on Birthday
- Nancy Isime Recalls Alex Ekubo’s Fearless Humor, Generosity at Late Actor’s Tribute
The incident has sparked widespread criticism and renewed debate over how best to address insecurity in the state, with questions raised about both community actions and government strategy.
Governor Dauda Lawal has strongly distanced his administration from the failed mission, insisting that the delegation acted without official approval. Speaking in a BBC Hausa interview, he described the move as unauthorised and dangerous, stressing that the government does not support negotiations with armed groups.
According to him, “They did not inform the authorities before taking such a risky step… they were on their own.” He added that his administration remains firmly opposed to engaging bandits in dialogue.
Lawal reiterated that his government had consistently rejected negotiations with criminals, arguing that past peace deals in the state failed to end violence and in some cases strengthened armed groups.
He maintained that his approach focuses on sustained security operations rather than concessions, adding that progress has been recorded despite ongoing challenges. He also said improved security conditions had contributed to better agricultural output in some parts of the state.
The governor acknowledged that insecurity has not been fully eliminated, noting that criminal groups continue to adapt and shift operations when pressured by security forces. He expressed optimism that the situation would eventually improve with continued efforts.
Meanwhile, reactions remain divided among residents. Some support the governor’s refusal to negotiate, arguing that past agreements only emboldened armed groups. Others believe dialogue may offer a faster path to peace, citing continued killings, displacement, and economic hardship in rural communities.
The fate of the abducted elders remains unclear as concerns grow over worsening insecurity and the risks faced by communities attempting self-driven peace efforts without state backing.
FURTHER READING
