Al-Amin Tsafe, Iliyasu Maijega Embroiled in Bitter Dispute Over Zamfara Politics

In the unfolding political landscape of Zamfara State, a recent dispute has emerged between Dr. Al-Amin Tsafe and Iliyasu Buhari Maijega, highlighting contrasting views on governance and financial management in the Dauda Lawal administration. Dr. Tsafe raised concerns about the alleged dominance of external “experts” in key government operations, while Maijega swiftly responded to debunk these claims.

The Spectacles has thoroughly examined and analyzed the statements made by both individuals. We will now break down and explain our interpretation of each of their viewpoints. Ultimately, it is up to the audience to carefully assess the information and determine for themselves who is in the right and who may be mistaken.

Dr. Tsafe has publicly voiced concerns that many appointees in Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration, including the Deputy Governor and members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly (ZMHA), are being denied access to essential funds needed to manage their offices. He claimed that only those who demonstrate loyalty to a particular group of external “experts” are granted such access. Tsafe insinuated that these outsiders wield undue influence, effectively guiding the operation of several government offices in the state.

This claim, he argued, amounts to undermining the integrity and independence of high-ranking officials, including the Deputy Governor, suggesting that Zamfara State’s governance is compromised by a lack of financial autonomy within the administration.

In a sharp rebuttal, Iliyasu Buhari Maijega criticized Dr. Tsafe’s assertions, labeling them as speculative and unfounded. Maijega emphasized that all officers, from the Deputy Governor to the heads of various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), are fully in control of the resources allocated to their offices. He described Tsafe’s claim as disrespectful to the state’s leadership, particularly the ZMHA and Deputy Governor, dismissing any notion that external approval is needed for officeholders to manage their funds.

Moreover, Maijega defended the role of the so-called “experts” from outside the state. He likened their involvement to the strategic appointments made by former Lagos Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who enlisted non-indigenes in his cabinet to strengthen governance. According to Maijega, these individuals have been instrumental in plugging financial leakages and improving efficiency in Zamfara. He cited one “expert” who reportedly saved ₦12 billion for the state by curbing payroll irregularities. Maijega also contended that these experts are not consultants but salaried Special Advisers, adding that their contributions have been invaluable in redirecting resources toward critical public projects, such as the construction of classrooms and hospitals.

Maijega concluded by suggesting that Tsafe’s claims are fueled by those frustrated by the government’s anti-corruption measures, which have curtailed avenues for illicit enrichment. He urged Governor Lawal to stay focused on his administration’s “Rescue Mission” for Zamfara, dismissing any distractions from those benefitting from the state’s previous corrupt practices.

The exchange between Dr. Tsafe and Maijega underscores deeper tensions within Zamfara’s political environment, particularly regarding the role of external advisers and the management of state resources. While Tsafe raises concerns about transparency and autonomy within the administration, Maijega defends the current approach, portraying the involvement of outsiders as a necessary reform for tackling corruption and improving governance.

As the debate continues, the Zamfara public remains divided, with some questioning the influence of external advisers while others applaud the government’s efforts to restore fiscal discipline in the state.