The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has released a strongly worded statement condemning Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal for his recent allegations against Minister of State for Defense, Bello Matawalle.
In the press release, the NDYC characterized Governor Lawal’s accusations of Matawalle’s involvement in banditry as “baseless” and a “ploy to sabotage security progress” in the state. The organization praised the Defense Ministry’s recent efforts in combating banditry, including the reported elimination of high-profile bandit leaders.
The youth group questioned the timing of Governor Lawal’s allegations, suggesting they coincide with what they termed “unprecedented success” in the fight against banditry. The NDYC accused the governor of prioritizing political maneuvering over the state’s security needs.
In a bold move, the organization called for the federal government to consider declaring a state of emergency in Zamfara. They argued this would allow security agencies to operate without political interference, which they claim is hampering progress.
The press release urged Governor Lawal to retract his statements and publicly support ongoing security initiatives. The NDYC warned that any further attempts to undermine these efforts would be met with “stiff resistance from all well-meaning Nigerians.”