A Civil Society Organization has called out Zamfara state authorities to take proactive measure in tackling violence and bloodshed the state is currently faced with.
This was disclosed in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday. According to the statement Zamfara State has endured far too long under the grip of violence and bloodshed, leaving its populace in fear and despair.
While speaking, the champion for the voiceless of the voiceless, Nasir Ismail Doka stated that he boldly stands against the senseless
atrocities that have plagued the state and demands an immediate end to the bloodshed,
“It is time for decisive action from the authorities to restore peace and security to the people of Zamfara.
While identifying the root causes, he noted that the violence gripping Zamfara State is deeply rooted in a multitude of factors, including poverty, unemployment, lack of education, and the widespread availability of small arms and light weapons.
“Additionally, the exploitation of the state’s abundant mineral resources, particularly gold, has further fueled the conflict as armed groups vie for control.
“The breakdown of traditional governance structures and ineffective law enforcement have only exacerbated the situation, allowing criminal elements to operate with impunity.
“The toll of this violence on the people of Zamfara State is immeasurable.
Countless lives have been lost., families ton apart, and communities displaced.
“Children are being deprived of their right to education, while women and girls face increased risks of sexual violence and exploitation.
“The elderly live in constant fear, and the psychological scars inflicted by the violence run deep, with many suffering from trauma and mental health issues.
He called on authorities to take urgent steps and prioritize the safety and well-being of Zamfara’s citizens.
“Concrete steps must be taken to address the root causes of the violence, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of education.
“Efforts to disarm and dismantle armed groups must be intensified, with perpetrators held accountable for their crimes.
“Moreover, there isa critical need for increased investment Ãn commurity policing and the strengthening of law enforcerment agencies to ensure justice for victims.
“Adequate support and assistance must be provided to those affected, including psychosocial counseling, medical care, and livelihood support.
“Yesterday, several villages in Zurmi, Kanwa, and surrounding areas were attacked, resulting in multiple casualties.
Despite the ongoing violence, the governor was frequently traveling, with visits to Abuja, America, and the UK.
“Meanwhile, a notorious terrorist, Kachalla Dogo, who has been operating in Nigeria for over a decade, was apprehended in Niger after fleeing Zamfara.
This incident underscores the urgent need for a state of emergency declaration in Zamfara.
“For instance, in Talata Mafarawa Local Government, villages like Malele, with vast illegal gold mining operations, are breeding grounds for criminal activities, including kidnapping for labor in the gold mines.
“However, the presence of military forces, instead of aiding in security, often exacerbates the situation and is influenced by political motives.