Insecurity: Governor Dauda Lawal Launches 2,046 Askarawan Zamfara

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State inaugurated the 2,046-strong community protection force called ‘Askarawa’ today in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State.

During his address, Governor Dauda stated, “Ensuring security was a pledge I made to the people of Zamfara during our election campaign. Today, guided by divine intervention, we launch the ‘Askarawa’ Zamfara army, aimed at assisting security forces in eradicating the banditry that has plagued our state.

“With the grace of God, we are committed to utilizing these ‘Askarawa’ to safeguard the people of Zamfara to the best of our ability.”

The Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umaru Radda, serving as the chief guest, emphasized that the initiative to deploy volunteers against terrorists is a collaborative effort of the seven Northern governors. “By the grace of God, other state governors will soon adopt and replicate this initiative,” he added.

“There can be no reconciliation with the bandits other than through active confrontation. The Zamfara governor’s embrace of this approach signals a unified front, affirming that reconciliation is not an everlasting solution until we witness the end of terrorism, God willing.”

General Ali Gusau, the leader of the ceremony, declared, “The community protection force was established to safeguard lives and property, adhering to the law. They will collaborate closely with security forces to ensure success in their mission.”