Zamfara Conflict Resolution Concern Forum (ZCRC), has criticised the handling of the issues surrounding the kidnapping of female students of Federal University Gusau by the state government, and called for a state of emergency.
The group warned that the government is not taking the matter seriously, but rather, is politicizing the security situation.
Chairman of ZCRC Tukur Sabi Gusau, was reacting to a video clip and photos that allegedly indicated that officials of the state government were negotiating with bandit leaders in a statement in Abuja, yesterday.
He said, “This is in contrast to the government’s earlier stance opposing negotiations with criminals. It is unfortunate that the government of Dauda Lawal is being hypocritical. We reiterate our demand for the federal government to declare a state of emergency in the state as the only remaining option if it is really serious about the situation here.
“All indicators of failure in Governor Lawal’s capacity, preparedness, or political will to handle the situation have manifested. The recent footage of his commissioner negotiating with the bandits is further testament of his indecision, flip flops and instability as leader of a state in crisis.
“It is rather unfortunate that while the Governor toys with this situation, the families of the kidnapped students are living in agony and despair. They have been calling on the government in vain to act swiftly and decisively to rescue their loved ones.
“The longer it takes for the government to take action, the more dangerous the situation becomes for these innocent young women. It is imperative that all stakeholders stop relying on the state government and come together to find a solution to this crisis.”
He said civil society organisations, religious leaders, and members of the public must all unite behind a common goal of bringing back the girls safe and sound, adding that only then can they truly say that justice has been served and that the society is truly free from fear and insecurity.
He said whether the federal government would heed this call remains to be seen, but added that what is certain is that the safety and well-being of the abducted female students should be the top priority and all efforts must be made to secure their release.