Insecurity: Group urges Tinubu to declare state of emergency in Zamfara

The United Democratic Coalition (UDC) has called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara, citing growing insecurity and concerns over the state’s democratic processes.

In a statement issued on Friday and signed by Abdulrahman Danladi, president of the UDC, Zamfara was described as “a state under siege.” Danladi criticized the state government for what he sees as a failure to fulfill its constitutional duty to protect its citizens and uphold democratic principles.

According to the statement, “The situation in Zamfara has deteriorated significantly. Armed groups are operating with little restraint, and citizens are increasingly vulnerable. We are also concerned that the suspension of 10 lawmakers—allegedly for raising issues of insecurity and illegal mining—signals a broader disregard for democratic accountability.”

Drawing a comparison with recent events in Rivers State, where a reduced number of lawmakers prompted discussions about emergency rule, Danladi noted, “If a situation with only four lawmakers in Rivers State can trigger talks of federal intervention, the challenges in Zamfara with 10 suspended lawmakers and escalating violence should also command national attention.”

The UDC is advocating for a six-month state of emergency in Zamfara. The proposed measure would allow security forces to reestablish order and support the return of constitutional governance. The coalition also called for the immediate reinstatement of the suspended lawmakers and requested an inquiry into what it described as undue executive influence in the legislative process.

“This is a critical moment for leadership,” the statement concluded. “The people of Zamfara are facing severe challenges from both security threats and issues within their government. It is essential that all branches of government work together to restore safety and uphold democratic values.”

Zamfara continues to experience significant security challenges, with ongoing attacks by armed groups leading to casualties and displacement over the past year.