Lawal Vows No Deals with Bandits During Sympathy Visit to Bungudu Attack Victims

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has restated his administration’s unwavering resolve to confront insecurity head-on, declaring that his government will neither negotiate with nor capitulate to criminal elements terrorising communities across the state.

The governor made the declaration on Thursday when he paid a condolence visit to Bungudu Local Government Area, where he sympathised with families who lost loved ones in last week’s deadly bandit attack, as well as the traditional institution and residents affected by the tragedy.

Governor Lawal began the visit at the palace of the Emir of Bungudu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Hassan Attahiru, where he reassured the community that the state government remains fully committed to restoring lasting peace and ending the menace of banditry.

Addressing the Emir, community leaders and residents, the governor described the attack as a painful ordeal but urged the people not to lose hope, assuring them that every available resource was being deployed to tackle the security challenge.

He stated: “I am here to express my sympathy and offer condolences to the families, the Emir, and the people of Bungudu following last week’s bandit attacks. This is a test from Almighty Allah, and we will overcome it. The state government is dedicating resources and efforts to end the threat of banditry. I encourage everyone to remain patient, as this sensitive issue requires both perseverance and steadfast prayers. I pray that God grants the victims’ families the strength to endure this loss. May Allah forgive those who have passed. We will continue to provide all necessary assistance to the injured and will do everything possible to secure the safe return of all kidnapped victims.”

Lawal’s visit underscored his administration’s determination to stand with communities devastated by insecurity while reinforcing its policy of refusing to strike deals with armed groups responsible for violent attacks in the state.

Responding on behalf of the people of Bungudu, the Emir praised the governor for demonstrating compassion and remaining steadfast in the fight against insecurity.

The monarch acknowledged the governor’s efforts to strengthen security across Zamfara, expressing confidence that the battle against banditry would ultimately be won.

He remarked: “As a member of the state’s security council, I am aware of the governor’s efforts. I am confident that we will overcome the challenge of banditry. We appreciate your condolence visit—it means a great deal to the people of Bungudu LGA.”

Beyond the palace, Governor Lawal extended his condolence tour to the homes of bereaved families, including that of the late Alhaji Bello Umar Bungudu, where he personally commiserated with relatives and other victims’ families.

The governor assured them that his administration would continue to provide support for those injured in the attack while intensifying efforts with security agencies to ensure those abducted regain their freedom safely.

The visit formed part of the Zamfara State Government’s continued engagement with communities affected by insecurity, as the administration presses ahead with measures aimed at restoring peace, protecting lives and rebuilding public confidence in the state’s security response.