The Zamfara State Government has reiterated its firm stance against negotiating with armed bandits, pledging instead to intensify security operations and adopt new strategies aimed at addressing the worsening insecurity across the state.
The position was reaffirmed by the Deputy Governor, Mani Mumuni Masamar Mudi, during a condolence visit to Bunkasau village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area following a recent deadly attack that left several residents dead and others injured.
According to a statement issued by the Deputy Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Shehu Adamu Gusau, the state government delegation visited the affected community to sympathise with victims and assess the aftermath of the attack, which reportedly claimed at least 26 lives.
Mudi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing the killings as tragic and unacceptable, while assuring residents that the government remains committed to restoring peace and stability in the region. He also commended the resilience of the community, noting that residents reportedly resisted the attackers and managed to neutralise some of them during the confrontation.
On behalf of the state government, the Deputy Governor extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased. He also wished the injured victims a speedy recovery, pledging that medical support would be prioritised for survivors of the attack.
The visit formed part of ongoing efforts by the state authorities to reassure rural communities affected by repeated assaults from armed groups operating in parts of Zamfara, a state that has remained one of the epicentres of Nigeria’s banditry crisis in recent years.
During the visit, the Speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, also addressed residents and commended their bravery in resisting the attackers. He noted that the growing willingness of communities to defend themselves reflected rising frustration over persistent insecurity in rural areas.
Moriki further suggested that the State Assembly may consider legislative measures that could allow communities to bear arms for self-defence, provided such actions remain within constitutional limits. His remarks are expected to generate debate, given Nigeria’s strict firearms regulations and ongoing national discussions about civilian participation in security efforts.
The Chief Imam of Bunkasau, Malam Abubakar, who spoke on behalf of the community, expressed appreciation for the government’s visit, describing it as a sign of solidarity in a time of grief. He said the community had endured repeated attacks over time but recently made a collective decision to resist the assailants rather than remain passive victims.
He, however, appealed for increased government intervention, urging authorities to strengthen local security arrangements and provide more support to vulnerable communities facing frequent attacks. According to him, sustained protection and rapid response mechanisms are essential to prevent further loss of lives.
The Deputy Governor was accompanied on the visit by senior government officials, including the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ahmad Garba Yandi, and the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Mannir Fura Girke. The delegation met with community leaders, assessed the level of destruction, and reviewed ongoing security concerns in the area.
Zamfara State has long struggled with armed banditry, kidnappings, and rural attacks, which have displaced thousands of residents and disrupted agricultural activities. Successive administrations have adopted different strategies, including military operations and peace initiatives, but insecurity has persisted in several local government areas.
The state government’s renewed rejection of negotiations with bandit groups signals a shift toward a more force-driven approach, even as communities continue to bear the brunt of violent attacks. Officials say the new strategy will focus on strengthening security deployments, improving intelligence gathering, and enhancing collaboration between security agencies and local communities.
While authorities insist that sustained military pressure remains the most effective way to address the crisis, residents in affected areas continue to call for faster response times, better protection, and long-term solutions to restore normalcy to rural communities.
The latest attack in Bunkasau adds to a growing list of violent incidents in the region, underscoring the ongoing security challenges facing Zamfara and reinforcing calls for more decisive action to protect lives and property.
