This statement came in response to claims made by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal. He alleged, through his spokesperson Sulaiman Bala Idris, on Monday, that some federal agencies were secretly negotiating with the bandits terrorizing the state without his knowledge.
Governor Lawal's statement read, "The Zamfara State government has received reports of how some federal government delegation met with different bandit groups in Birnin Magaji, Maradun, Munhaye, Ajjah, Bawo, and Bagega. We urge the federal government to take swift action by terminating the ongoing negotiations with the bandits in Zamfara, as it undermines progress so far."
However, both the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and his Minister of State counterpart, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, denied the governor's claims.
"The said allegation is false and misleading as the ministry has not mandated anybody or group to negotiate on behalf of the federal government," stated Minister Abubakar.
Regarding the recent kidnapping of female students from Zamfara University by bandits, the ministers reassured the people of Zamfara and all Nigerians that progress was being made to secure the swift return of the abducted students.
They expressed confidence in the joint security task forces and their continuous efforts to rescue the students. Senior Minister Badaru condemned the act and emphasized that the federal government was committed to securing their release.
He extended his heartfelt sympathy to the affected families and called on the nation's security forces to intensify their efforts.
Junior Minister Matawalle added that both air and ground military components had been extensively deployed within the state, with orders from President Tinubu to ensure the release of those abducted. He noted that significant progress had already been made, with 13 of the abducted students and three others regaining their freedom.
Matawalle conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and strongly condemned the reprehensible act carried out by suspected bandits.
