By Rafiyat Sadiq
The Zamfara Good Governance Forum (ZGGF) has demanded the immediate resignation of Governor Dauda Lawal, following the killing of 35 villagers in Banga, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, despite a ₦50 million ransom paid for their release.
In a statement issued in Gusau on Monday, the group described the killings as an indictment of Governor Lawal’s handling of security, accusing him of incompetence, policy inconsistency, and leadership failure.
President of the Forum, Alhaji Sani Mohammed, said the massacre of the villagers, who were abducted months ago and later killed by their captors despite the ransom payment, symbolised the “complete collapse of governance” in the state.
“What happened in Banga village is a national tragedy. Thirty-five innocent citizens were slaughtered like animals, even after ₦50 million was paid. And yet, the governor who swore to protect lives and property is busy playing hide and seek with the same terrorists,” the statement read.
The group said Lawal, who campaigned heavily against the security lapses of former Governor Bello Matawalle, has failed to offer a better alternative since assuming office. Instead, it noted, the administration has appeared increasingly overwhelmed and directionless.
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“Before his election, Dauda Lawal spoke like a man who understood the crisis. Today, it is clear he came with no plan — only ambition,” the statement said.
The ZGGF lamented that under Lawal’s watch, rural communities like Banga have been left defenceless against heavily armed groups who now impose taxes on villagers, carry out abductions, and punish anyone who resists.
“Banga is now ruled by terrorists. Neighbouring villages are abandoned. Women are raped, and men are killed or taken. The state government has reduced itself to press statements and photo sessions,” the Forum stated.
The group called on Governor Lawal to resign immediately, saying his continued stay in office “is a mockery of the pain and bloodshed” endured by Zamfara people.
“This is no longer about politics. It is about survival. He has failed, and he knows it. If he has any sense of honour left, he should resign,” Mohammed added.
The Forum also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to declare Zamfara a national emergency zone, deploy additional troops, and commence a sustained military operation to reclaim the region from armed groups.
“Zamfara is bleeding. The president must act. But first, the governor must go,” the statement concluded.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
