Matawalle- Is Lawal Governing or Gaming Zamfara-

In an exclusive interview, Lewis Chukwuma examines the current political landscape in Zamfara State, which is grappling with economic downturn and rampant banditry. He poses a critical question: is Governor Dauda Lawal prioritizing the state’s pressing issues or engaging in a detrimental feud with his predecessor, Dr. Bello Matawalle, the current Minister of State for Defence?

Chukwuma notes that instead of focusing on transformative governance, Governor Lawal appears preoccupied with a relentless campaign against Matawalle. The situation is exacerbated by advisors who may not be offering the best counsel. Highlighting a recent statement from Alhaji Faruk Ahmad, Lawal’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Mobilization and Enlightenment, Chukwuma points out that Ahmad claimed the ongoing political conflict isn’t hindering progress. However, he conveniently avoided providing any concrete governance metrics to support this assertion.

Observers are increasingly concerned about Lawal’s tactics, which some see as echoing the politically charged rhetoric often associated with Donald Trump. For instance, Lawal accused Matawalle of neglecting Zamfara by addressing security challenges in Sokoto, overlooking the presidential directive that called for security chiefs to operate from Sokoto to combat terrorism in the North-West. As Chukwuma emphasizes, Matawalle’s responsibilities encompass national security, with the Defence Ministry playing a crucial role in overseeing the nation’s armed forces.

Recalling President Bola Tinubu’s directive from September 1, which sent Matawalle and military leaders to Sokoto to tackle security threats, Chukwuma highlights the grave context in which Zamfara operates. With Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna leading in kidnapping incidents, it is vital for Muatwalle to remain focused, unmarred by political distractions.

Chukwuma articulates a growing sentiment among observers that Governor Lawal’s focus on attacking Matawalle could undermine not just governance but also public safety. The current political rivalry appears to be detrimental to the very essence of effective leadership needed to address banditry and underdevelopment in Zamfara.

Adding another layer to the conflict, Lawal accused Matawalle of complicity in local insecurity, which prompted a fierce response. Matawalle demanded that Lawal swear an oath to disprove his claims. Chukwuma underscores Matawalle’s reputation for integrity, noting his previous oath declaring his innocence regarding banditry and the lack of participation from other politicians challenging such claims.

Furthermore, Chukwuma points out Matawalle’s dismissal of Lawal’s allegations of embezzlement, clarifying that his administration operated with much lower financial resources. This conversation of accountability raises further questions about the motivations behind Lawal’s repeated allegations, which appear unfounded according to many experts.

As the political drama unfolds, influential voices such as former Governor Senator Abdulaziz Yari are urging Lawal to redirect his energy towards constructive governance rather than personal attacks against Matawalle. Yari’s surprising alignment with Matawalle, despite their historical rivalries, speaks volumes about the current political climate in Zamfara.

Matawalle, undeterred by the unfolding conflicts, is committed to leading the charge against insecurity. He encourages community vigilance and cooperation with security efforts, assuring residents of his commitment to their safety.

Chukwuma asserts that it is critical for Governor Lawal to shift his focus from political gamesmanship to transformative governance for the betterment of Zamfara State. The conversation raises important points about the necessity for unity and collaboration among political figures to combat the serious challenges facing their constituents.