Minister Dismisses Zamfara Governor’s Politicization of Abducted Students’ Rescue Effort
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has expressed concern and disappointment regarding the Zamfara State Governor’s recent statement. Rather than acknowledging the efforts of security agents and Federal Government institutions in promptly rescuing the abducted students of the Federal University Gusau, Governor Dr. Dauda Lawal chose to politicize the issue for personal gain.
The Minister emphasizes that Federal Government institutions have the legal authority to take immediate action in order to ensure the safe return of citizens who have been illegally abducted, just as they did in the case of these unfortunate students. Although the specific details of such sensitive operations are not disclosed by the responsible institutions, it is far from being secretive as described by the Zamfara State Government.
In order to clarify any misconceptions, the Minister categorically states that no government official is engaged in negotiations with any bandit or group of bandits. Nevertheless, the government remains committed to exploring all available avenues that can help de-escalate the prevailing tension and restore peace to communities devastated by banditry. If communities choose to learn from successful initiatives that have helped resolve unrest in other parts of the country and engage in dialogue, the Federal Government will not hastily condemn such people-driven efforts.
The Minister assures Nigerians that the Federal Government and its institutions are diligently working to reverse the current situation and put an end to the rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, and all forms of criminality. Political differences or personal conflicts should not be injected into matters of national security in order to avoid demoralizing the troops or derailing the government’s efforts.
Lastly, the Minister affirms that the Federal Government is open to listen and will continue its ongoing engagement with all stakeholders across the country to find a lasting solution to our security challenges. He calls on everyone to join forces with the government in addressing these issues.
The statement by the Minister underscores the importance of focusing on the immediate concern at hand, which is the safe rescue of the abducted students, rather than exploiting the situation for personal or political gain. It highlights the government’s commitment to collaboration and finding viable solutions to the security problems facing Nigeria.
