Coalition Condemns Zamfara, Katsina Govs for Skipping Vital Security Meeting

The Safeguard Zamfara Coalition (SZC), a non-governmental organization, has criticized the governors of Zamfara and Katsina for their absence at a critical security meeting convened by the chairman of the Northern Governors Forum along with security chiefs.

In a statement released by its President General, Saminu Tukur, over the weekend, the group expressed disappointment over the governors’ decision.

“The SZC expresses deep disappointment and frustration towards Governors Dauda Lawal of Zamfara and Umar Raddah of Katsina for disregarding a crucial meeting aimed at addressing the security challenges in their states,” the statement read.

The coalition emphasized the importance of the meeting in tackling the escalating insecurity in Northern Nigeria, particularly in Zamfara and Katsina.

“It is regrettable that these governors failed to participate in discussions that could have yielded solutions to the dire security situation affecting their states,” the statement continued.

The SZC also criticized the governors’ reliance on civilian forces, known as Yan Sa Kai, to combat security challenges, stating that such actions have worsened the crisis.

“The unregulated and often indiscriminate operations by the Yan Sa Kai have only led to further violence and chaos, exacerbating the security environment in the North-West region,” the statement noted.

The group stressed the need for a strategic and coordinated approach to address the root causes of insecurity, warning against politicizing the issue at the expense of citizens’ lives and safety.

“The governors must prioritize the safety and security of their citizens above all else, and take meaningful steps to address the current security crisis in a responsible and effective manner,” the statement concluded.