A concerned advocacy group, Zamfara Elders Support for Peace and Development, has called on Governor Dauda Lawal to rise above political rivalry and focus on a collaborative approach to governance. According to a press release issued on Thursday, the elders stressed the urgent need for inclusive leadership that fosters unity and sustainable development in Zamfara State. Need for Inclusive and Focused Leadership The elders emphasized that development in Zamfara has stagnated, especially in rural communities, due to political division and lack of cohesive leadership. They called for a renewed focus on areas like public health, basic education, civil service welfare, and rural infrastructure, stating that these sectors are crucial for the well-being of the citizens. “The current pace of development in Zamfara is distressingly slow. There’s a dire need for a unified strategy that includes all stakeholders,” the statement read. Rural Education in Decline One of the primary concerns raised is the deteriorating state of education, particularly in rural areas. Many primary schools in Zamfara are either underfunded or completely abandoned due to poor infrastructure. “Several schools are operating without basic learning materials, and in some cases, classes have ceased entirely,” the elders lamented. For more on how education challenges affect northern Nigerian states, read this report by UNICEF. Healthcare System Needs Urgent Attention The group also pointed out serious deficiencies in Zamfara’s healthcare system. There is a shortage of modern medical facilities and trained professionals, making it difficult to meet the needs of the growing population. This concern aligns with Nigeria’s national health challenges, where rural health delivery remains critically under-resourced. Clean Water and Emergency Services Clean water scarcity in rural areas also topped the elders’ concerns. Many communities still lack access to potable water, which poses risks to public health. Additionally, they criticized the state’s fire emergency response infrastructure, urging Governor Lawal to invest in fire services and disaster response facilities to ensure public safety. Internal Link: You may also want to read about sustainable development goals in Nigeria to understand how states can align with global targets. Call for Budget Transparency and Legislative Oversight The group strongly advocated for greater transparency in budget allocation and expenditure tracking. They encouraged the government to channel public resources into impactful projects and to collaborate with the legislative arm of government for checks and balances. “Public accountability is the foundation of good governance. Every naira spent should reflect positive change for the people,” the statement added. Conclusion: A Call for Non-Partisan Progress The Zamfara elders have issued a timely and critical appeal to Governor Lawal, reminding him that leadership goes beyond politics. The call emphasizes working in the interest of every citizen and strengthening institutional partnerships to uplift Zamfara’s socio-economic condition Further Reading: BUY ANYTHING ON KONGA BUY NOW READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Alhaji Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, a former governorship aspirant in Zamfara State and a prominent member of the Bola Tinubu/Kashim Shettima Presidential Campaign Council 2023, has firmly rejected the growing calls for a state of emergency in the state. Speaking on behalf of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, Shinkafi alleged that these calls are politically motivated and backed by unsuccessful politicians who are attempting to destabilize the current administration. Political Motives Behind Emergency Calls According to Shinkafi, the individuals pushing for emergency measures are doing so with the intention to grab power through unconstitutional means, driven by greed and desperation to loot state resources. “These expired politicians are hallucinating about power,” Shinkafi stated. “They have no regard for the Constitution and are attempting to mislead the public and disrupt progress in Zamfara.” Constitutional Misunderstanding and Democratic Norms Shinkafi emphasized that Nigeria’s Constitution clearly outlines the conditions required for removing an elected governor or imposing a state of emergency. He condemned any suggestion of appointing a sole administrator as an undemocratic practice. He further stated: “Zamfara does not qualify for any constitutional basis to impose a state of emergency. Calls for such action are merely attempts to overheat the polity and distract the public.” For reference, Nigeria’s constitutional guidelines regarding a state of emergency can be reviewed here. Support for Governor Dauda Lawal Shinkafi praised Governor Dauda Lawal’s leadership, highlighting improvements in security, economic activity, and infrastructure since he assumed office on May 29, 2023. “Governor Lawal has made remarkable strides in fighting banditry, supported by the President and our security forces,” Shinkafi noted. “Public safety has improved, and citizens now enjoy better services and a functioning economy.” Zamfara’s Progress under Lawal’s Administration The administration has also implemented the ₦70,000 minimum wage for civil servants and promised to address pending issues affecting senior civil service wages. These are key components of Governor Lawal’s Rescue Mission agenda, aimed at restoring dignity and prosperity to the people of Zamfara. If you’re curious about Governor Lawal’s Rescue Mission and governance strategy, check out our internal report: Governor Dauda Lawal’s Vision for a Secure and Prosperous Zamfara A Call for Political Maturity and Patriotism Shinkafi urged politicians in Zamfara to prioritize development and peace over politics, especially as the next general elections in 2027 are still years away. “This is not the time for politicking. It’s a time for unity, growth, and national interest,” he said. “Let’s build a better Zamfara and preserve our democracy.” Conclusion: Upholding Democracy and Rejecting Disruption Shinkafi’s firm stance reflects a broader call to uphold democratic values and protect constitutional integrity in Nigeria. He urges President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian public to ignore those seeking to undermine peace and progress in Zamfara State. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
