Military highlights efforts, sacrifices in Zamfara, refutes Governor Lawal’s allegations

Defense Headquarters has categorically rejected allegations made by the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, that the military9 and police are not doing enough to fight banditry in the state.

Governor Lawal has stated that lack of efforts from federal security agencies led to the creation of a state security force, the Community Protection Guard. However, the military denied these claims, and provided evidence of their continuous efforts and sacrifices in fighting bandits.

Major General Edward Buba, Director, Defense Media Operations, made the allegations in a briefing at Defense Headquarters on Thursday.

“The AFN hereby makes it clear that they are a professional force that is subject to political authorities, particularly the political leadership of Zamfara State. The military will not take issue with the governor, but we choose the path of cooperation rather than conflict with the state governor and look forward to engaging constructively with him on this issue.”

The military highlighted its efforts in Zamfara State, where troops were deployed to fight banditry.

“Operation Hadarin Daji troops deployed in Zamfara State have so far lost nine personnel in June 2024. The personnel killed in this action are a painful testament to our tireless efforts, commitment and sacrifice to restore peace and security in the country that part,” said Major General Buba.

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The military also called for an impartial analysis of the accusations leveled by the governor against them and other security agencies. “The allegations against the military and security forces operating in the state need to be analyzed and understood impartially. “This situation underscores the fact that it is almost impossible to win a war without the support of the people of the country,” said Major General Buba.

Furthermore, the military noted that Zamfara State does not have an internal security operations force to coordinate the activities of security agencies, despite the state being the epicenter of kidnappings in the zone.

“Interestingly, despite the state being described as a kidnapping hub, Zamfara does not have an internal security operations force to coordinate the activities of security agencies, as is found in other states. “This situation leaves a lot to be desired,” said Major General Buba.

The military assured that it will continue to work tirelessly to restore safety and security across the country.

“Overall, the military will continue to work tirelessly to restore safety and security across our nation. “Of course there is still a lot of struggle to be done, to guarantee the security of our homeland,” said Major General Buba.

In addition, the military provides the latest information regarding their achievements in fighting terrorism.

“During the review week, troops neutralized 197 terrorists and arrested 310 people. Troops also arrested 22 oil theft perpetrators and rescued 251 kidnapped hostages. In the South-South, troops denied any oil theft estimated at N765,654,100,” said Major General Buba.

The military’s response to the allegations highlights its commitment to fighting banditry and terrorism in Zamfara State and across the country. Despite the challenges and sacrifices that have been made, the military remains dedicated to restoring peace and security throughout the region.

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