A group, the Katsina Youth Vanguard (KYV) has rebuked Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State and his Katsina State counterpart, Umar Raddah, for their absence at a crucial meeting between the Service Chiefs and the Northern Governors’ Forum called to find a lasting solution to the escalating insecurity in the North-West region.
The group noted that Zamfara and Katsina states are among the worst-hit by the pervasive insecurity including rampant banditry, kidnapping, and loss of lives and property in the region.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Aliyu Tanko, the KYV said the introduction of Yan Sa Kai civilian outfits in these states, supposedly meant to complement the efforts of the security agencies, has unfortunately exacerbated the situation.
Tanko accused the outfits of human rights abuses, extrajudicial killings, saying their setting have led to further destabilization of the already fragile security landscape in the region.
“The refusal of the two governors to attend this critical security meeting is a clear indication of their lack of commitment to addressing the security challenges facing their respective states and the entire North-West region.
“It is unacceptable for elected officials to neglect their responsibilities to protect the lives and properties of their citizens, especially in the face of escalating insecurity and widespread fear among the populace,” the group said.
It then reminded both governors on the imperatives of prioritizing security and well-being of their people.
“The KYV reminds Governor Lawal and Governor Raddah to prioritize the security and well-being of their people above all other considerations.
“They must set aside any political differences and work collaboratively with the security agencies and the Northern Governors Forum to find lasting solutions to the insecurity plaguing our region,” Tanko said.
It further warned against the politicization of security matters, saying doing so will worsen the already dire situation.
“It is imperative that all stakeholders come together in a spirit of unity and cooperation to tackle the root causes of insecurity and restore peace and stability in our communities,” the KYV stated.