Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has debunked the allegation levelled against the federal government by the governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal.
Recall that the governor had in a statement by his spokesman, Sulaiman Bala Idris, alleged on Monday that some federal agencies were secretly negotiating with bandits terrorising the state without his knowledge.
The statement had read: ”Governor Dauda Lawal wishes to call on the federal government to clarify and investigate the actions of some unscrupulous elements sabotaging the ongoing fight against banditry in Zamfara.
”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.”
But the minister while reacting to the allegation described it as false and misleading as the ministry has not mandated any body or group to negotiate on behalf of federal government”.
On the kidnap of Zamfara female varsity students by bandits last weekend, the minister reassured the people of Zamfara and Nigerians of the progress being made for the quick return of the abducted female students and others of Federal University, Gusau.
He expressed confidence that the joint security task forces were working discreetly round the clock to get the students rescued.
The minister who condemned the act, said that federal government was doing everything possible to secure their release.
He extended his heartfelt sympathy to the parents, the academic community, and the entire citizenry of Zamfara State for the tragic abduction.
He called on the nation’s dedicated security forces to intensify efforts and deploy every available resources to secure the safe return of the abducted students.
The minister said all hands must be on deck in securing the release of the abducted students.
His words; “As part of President Bola Ahmed Tinibu’s eight point agenda of strengthening national security for peace and prosperity, I condemn and vow to secure the release of the abducted students”.
”Air and ground components of the military has already been massively deployed within the state and every measure would be taken to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians.
” President Tinubu has given marching order to the military and other security agencies to ensure the release of those abducted”.
