Group gives position on call for President Tinubu to declare Emergency rule in another State

The Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development has strongly condemned recent calls by some self-serving politicians for President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State.

The group expressed concern that these calls were aimed at creating political instability and disrupting the peace in a state that is only just recovering from years of armed banditry.

In a statement released yesterday in Abuja, the group’s Executive Director, Alhaji Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, expressed outrage at what he described as the actions of “failed politicians” who are attempting to undermine the progress being made in Zamfara. He pointed out that the state had suffered from unprecedented armed banditry for over 13 years, long before Governor Dauda Lawal assumed office in 2023.

However, recent efforts have significantly improved security, opening the door for economic activities and large-scale infrastructure development.

Dr. Shinkafi praised both President Tinubu and the Nigerian military for their sustained efforts in combatting armed bandits and criminal elements in Zamfara and the wider North West region.

He affirmed that the ongoing security operations align with Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that the security and welfare of the people be the primary purpose of government.

“To call for a state of emergency now, in a state that is experiencing peace, unity, stability, and economic growth, is an act of sabotage,” Shinkafi said.

“These individuals are enemies of the people, and their actions should not only be ignored but investigated by security agencies to uncover their sponsors and hidden motives.”

Shinkafi went further to remind Nigerians that declaring a state of emergency, which involves suspending the elected governor, deputy governor, and state legislators, is illegal, unconstitutional, and undemocratic. He emphasized that the Supreme Court had already ruled on this matter, reaffirming that such an action is not permissible under Nigeria’s Constitution.

“The 1999 Constitution clearly outlines the legal processes for removing a governor or declaring a state of emergency. Zamfara does not meet any of the constitutional conditions for such actions,” Shinkafi explained.

“No reasonable citizen will take these provocateurs seriously. If President Tinubu were to declare a state of emergency across Nigeria, it would be in every state and Abuja, given the widespread presence of criminal elements. But as a democrat, President Tinubu will not consider such an inappropriate move.”

Shinkafi also expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal, describing him as a strong, progressive, and visionary leader who is working effectively alongside President Tinubu and military authorities to eradicate banditry in the state.

He emphasized that the restoration of peace in Zamfara is a testament to democracy functioning at its best, as the people who have suffered for years are finally seeing the fruits of good governance.

“Now is the time to rebuild Zamfara, to boost its economy, and to provide the benefits of democracy to the people who have endured so much hardship.

Politicians in the state should set aside bitterness and focus on contributing to the state’s transformation,” Shinkafi urged. “Governor Lawal was elected to lead; let him do so without unnecessary distractions.”

As the state moves toward stability and growth, the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development calls on all well-meaning Nigerians to support the government’s efforts and help foster peace and prosperity in Zamfara.