Zamfara: Gov Lawal under fire over alleged anti-democratic actions against Assembly members

The Centre for Democracy and Development has accused Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, of anti-democratic actions against members of the State House of Assembly.

The Centre condemned the governor's alleged undemocratic actions at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday.

Leader of the group, Ibrahim Yakubu, urged President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State for a minimum period of six months, as he recently did in Rivers State.

Yakubu said Lawal's alleged undemocratic actions in Zamfara amounted to economic sabotage, and has resulted in anarchy and instability.

He pointed to the suspension of 10 members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly for 13 months, on the prompting of the governor, for expressing concerns about the state's security situation.

According to the Centre, the development has crippled the legislative house, denying the people of Zamfara effective representation.

Governor Lawal was also accused of authoritarianism as the group argued that his instruction for the suspension of lawmakers who voiced concerns over the security situation in the state is a clear abuse of power and an attack on democracy.

The Centre equally condemned the governor's alleged complicity in illegal mining activities in the state, which has led to the exploitation of Zamfara's gold reserves.

The Centre said the situation in Zamfara warrants the imposition of a state of emergency.

“In light of these hideous violations, It is time for President Bola Tinubu to take action before it is too late. A state of emergency must be declared in Zamfara now.

“A six-month emergency period is necessary to restore order, dismantle the networks of political and economic terrorists, and pave the way for a return to democratic governance.

“This is not a call made lightly; it is a demand born out of necessity, as the current trajectory threatens not only Zamfara but the entire nation. The good people of Zamfara deserve leadership that upholds the rule of law, prioritizes security, and safeguards national resources,” the Centre said.

Continuing, the group urged the President to use every resource and tool at his disposal to handle the crisis in Zamfara.

“The Federal Government must take swift action in order to secure the state resources, defend people’s lives and livelihoods, and hold those culpable for the current situation accountable. The time for Half-measures and false promises are no longer an option; strong, quick action is now required.

“It is evident that Governor Dauda Lawal’s tenure has been an unmitigated disaster, a relentless assault on democracy, a blatant disregard for the rule of law, and a shocking indifference to the suffering of the people he was elected to serve.

“He has desecrated democratic institutions, fostered political terrorism, refused to tackle insecurity, and enabled the looting of Zamfara’s wealth. No doubt, he has failed in his responsibilities, and he can no longer remain in office. Nigeria deserves better,” the Centre added.