Zamfara: Governor Lawal Criticizes Judiciary Over Release of Bandits Following Abuja Order

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has expressed strong disapproval of the state judiciary’s decision to grant bail to suspected bandit leaders, who were apprehended with weapons and facing trial.

Governor Lawal alleged that the release of these suspects was orchestrated by influential figures in Abuja. He claimed these individuals had been in contact with the suspected bandit leaders, assuring them of their freedom shortly after their arrest.

The governor made these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of new magistrates in Gusau, the state capital. While commending some judiciary members for their dedication and integrity, he urged the new judicial officers to uphold their duties with honesty and fairness, stressing the importance of their roles in ensuring justice for the citizens of Zamfara.

Governor Lawal highlighted the current security crisis plaguing the state, which includes rampant banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling. He urged the judiciary to contribute to addressing these challenges, emphasizing that their integrity and dedication are crucial for restoring law and order.

The governor also mentioned that one of the suspected bandit leaders was apprehended in Bauchi State, while another was captured in Gusau. Both suspects were brought before the court but were subsequently released following the alleged intervention from Abuja.

Earlier, the Chief Judge of Zamfara State, Justice Kulu Aliyu, had admonished the newly appointed magistrates to uphold honesty and dedication, reminding them of their responsibility to enhance the judiciary’s image and reputation.

Governor Lawal has been vocal about the escalating insecurity in Zamfara, attributing it to prominent individuals in Abuja negotiating with the bandits without his administration’s knowledge. He contends that these unauthorized negotiations are exacerbating the security situation in the state.