Tensions surged in Zamfara State following the alleged murder of Magaji Lawal, a political ally of Senator Kabir Marafa, reportedly by members of the newly established Community Protection Guards (CPG).
Lawal was reportedly summoned to the CPG’s office in Tsafe town over suspicions of collaboration with bandits. Senator Marafa, speaking after Lawal’s funeral, stated that he had advised Lawal to comply with the CPG’s summons, believing them to be a legitimate government agency. However, he was shocked to learn of Lawal’s demise during the interrogation.
Marafa accused the CPG of torturing Lawal, alleging that the deceased was subjected to severe injuries before his death. He expressed support for the government’s efforts to combat banditry but raised concerns about the recruitment of individuals with questionable backgrounds.
The Senator vowed to pursue the truth behind Lawal’s death through appropriate channels. In response, the state government ordered security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
According to the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Nakwada, the altercation stemmed from a clash between two factions of local vigilante groups. While acknowledging the situation, Nakwada assured that the government was committed to holding those responsible accountable within the confines of the law.
