The Zamfara State Government has dismissed claims of funding notorious bandit leaders for reconciliation and reaffirmed its ban on mining activities in the state.

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Zamfara State Government has firmly rejected claims that it provided significant funds to notorious bandit leaders under the guise of reconciliation to facilitate mining activities.

The Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Nakwada, addressed these allegations in Gusau, asserting the government’s unwavering position against negotiating with bandits or any criminal groups.

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Zamfara State is notorious for illegal mining activities, driven by its rich deposits of gold and other minerals. The government linked these illegal operations to various issues, including environmental degradation and increased insecurity. Nakwada reiterated that the Federal Government’s ban on mining remains in effect, as does Governor Dauda Lawal’s statewide ban on such activities.

He stated, “The briefing was to address yet another false information in circulation, alleging that the State Government gave or is planning to give some notorious bandits huge amounts of money under the guise of ‘reconciliation efforts’ from the State Security Trust Fund.”

The government remains committed to the safety of Zamfara’s residents, introducing Community Protection Guards, known as Askarawa, to support conventional security forces in combatting banditry. Advanced surveillance systems have also been deployed to improve threat detection and response.

Mahmud Muhammed, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, confirmed that the state government has not engaged in any mining activities. He stressed that the state always directs investors to follow due process, as mining is under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal Government.

Abdul’Aziz Sani, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, announced that the government plans to take legal action against those spreading false information.

He stated, “This administration is one of seriousness, frankness, and truth. We have written to the relevant authorities regarding necessary legal actions.”