In a decisive move to curb escalating insecurity, Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has imposed an immediate ban on all political activities and rallies across the state. The directive comes in response to a recent security breach in Maru Local Government Area, which has heightened concerns over the deteriorating security situation.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Broadcast, Media, and Public Affairs, Mustapha Jafaru Kaura. According to the statement, the political season has yet to commence anywhere in Nigeria, making any form of political gathering unnecessary at this time.
“The ban takes effect immediately. Security agencies in the state have been directed to take swift action against any politician or group that defies this directive,” the statement read.
Rising Unrest and Emir’s Palace Set Ablaze
The decision to suspend political activities comes on the heels of a violent protest in Maru, where demonstrators, enraged by persistent terrorist attacks, set the palace of the Emir of Maru ablaze on Thursday, February 13.
The unrest erupted after security forces disrupted what had initially been a peaceful demonstration against the rampant kidnappings and killings plaguing the region. Protesters were particularly incensed by the recent abduction of 10 individuals, including the Chief Imam of the Maru Central Mosque, Alhaji Salisu Suleman, his two wives, and seven children.
The attack, carried out by terrorists in the early hours of Wednesday, saw armed assailants storm the town, firing indiscriminately to instill fear and assert dominance. This abduction adds to the grim tally of ongoing kidnappings and violent assaults that have turned Zamfara into one of Nigeria’s most terrorized states.
Despite the unrelenting wave of terror, Zamfara’s security budget remains alarmingly low. In 2024, the state government initially proposed N13.1 billion for internal security. However, only N800 million was approved, and a mere N30 million was disbursed for capital projects within the Ministry of Internal Security.
This underfunding has raised serious questions about the government’s commitment to tackling terrorism, leaving many residents vulnerable and at the mercy of relentless attacks. Critics argue that while political activities are now being suspended due to security concerns, the real issue lies in the government’s failure to prioritize security investment.
With tensions running high and insecurity spiraling out of control, Governor Lawal’s latest move is seen as both a preventive measure and a desperate attempt to restore order. However, whether this ban will deter violence or merely suppress political expression remains a subject of heated debate.
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