Zamfara Won’t Negotiate With Bandits – Commissioner

The Zamfara State Government has declared it will not engage in negotiations with bandits or other criminal groups, but will instead accept the surrender of individuals who renounce violence and lay down their arms. Mahmud Muhammad Dantawasa, the state's Commissioner for Information and Culture, made these remarks in response to a social media post questioning the government's stance on peace and reconciliation with bandits.

Dantawasa emphasized the government's ongoing commitment to safeguarding lives and property, as well as supporting lawful measures to address insecurity in the state. However, he clarified that accepting a criminal's surrender does not equate to negotiating or compromising with them. Instead, it is a lawful avenue the government should explore to save lives and restore peace when criminals decide to surrender.

Dantawasa stressed that the primary responsibility of the government is to protect its citizens, and that accepting genuine surrenders should not be rejected based on political considerations. He further stated that surrender does not automatically grant immunity from prosecution, and every surrender process must undergo security screening and be handled according to the law.

Dantawasa also expressed concern over the suffering of Zamfara residents due to years of insecurity, which has resulted in the loss of loved ones, homes, farms, businesses, and livelihoods. He reiterated the government's determination to end the crisis and help residents return to normal lives. The commissioner urged stakeholders to refrain from politicizing insecurity, stressing that it affects all citizens regardless of political affiliation.

He urged them to support initiatives capable of bringing lasting peace to affected communities. Dantawasa also noted that efforts to tackle insecurity are sometimes misinterpreted as weakness or political calculation. He clarified that peace should not be mistaken for weakness, and accepting genuine bandit surrenders should not be seen as surrendering to banditry.

He emphasized that the government will continue to employ lawful measures, including security operations and community engagement, to protect residents.