By Abubakar Yunusa Ojima-Ojo
The Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development (PAPSD) has condemned calls for a state of emergency in Zamfara State, describing them as “politically motivated, ill-conceived, unwarranted, unpatriotic, and unconstitutional.”
The group alleges that opposition elements are orchestrating protests to destabilise the state and undermine Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration.
In a statement issued on Saturday, PAPSD Executive Director Dr Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi accused a “cabal” of sponsoring youths to demand a state of emergency, drawing a comparison to the situation in Rivers State.
“There is no comparison between the two states,” Shinkafi said, arguing that the conditions warranting such a declaration in Rivers do not exist in Zamfara.
Shinkafi praised Governor Lawal’s leadership, noting that in less than two years, the governor has advanced his “Rescue Mission” to transform Zamfara from an agricultural base to an industrial hub. Key achievements include implementing the ₦70,000 national minimum wage, executing urban renewal projects, and improving social amenities, which have enhanced citizens’ well-being after a decade of stagnation and insecurity.
The group dismissed claims of escalating insecurity, asserting that Zamfara’s security situation has improved significantly compared to previous years.
Shinkafi attributed recent banditry to seasonal farming activities, which bandits exploit to extort farmers. He also claimed that many circulating videos and images of attacks are outdated, reposted to “overheat the polity” and discredit Lawal’s leadership.
PAPSD clarified that Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, outlines strict procedures for declaring a state of emergency under Section 305, requiring presidential proclamation and legislative approval.
The group noted that Zamfara does not meet the criteria, such as war or a breakdown of public order, and that the constitution does not permit the appointment of a sole administrator, as some critics have suggested.
The group also addressed the ongoing crisis in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, where nine members were suspended, leading to a factional split. The ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) holds 18 seats, while the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) has six.
The suspension of ten members (one later readmitted) has resulted in two rival factions, one led by Speaker Hon. Bilyamu Moriki with 14 members and another by Hon. Bashir Gummi with nine.
PAPSD urged the assembly to resolve the impasse politically and work for the state’s progress, dismissing impeachment talks as “a mirage” due to insufficient constitutional support.
PAPSD called on President Bola Tinubu and the military to address recent security breaches, particularly in Kaura Namoda, and urged Governor Lawal to convene an emergency security summit with stakeholders, including security chiefs, traditional rulers, and civil society.
The group also appealed for better support for military personnel combating banditry.
“We strongly advise legislators to shield their political swords in the interest of the state and work harmoniously for the well-being of Zamfara citizens,” Shinkafi said, reaffirming PAPSD’s commitment to fostering peace and prosperity in Nigeria.
