Zamfara State Government has reiterated its stance against negotiating with bandits, pledging to intensify efforts and adopt new strategies to tackle insecurity across the state.
Deputy Governor Mani Mumuni Masamar Mudi made this known during a condolence visit to Bunkasau village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area following a recent attack.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Shehu Adamu Gusau, the deputy governor expressed sorrow over the incident, which claimed the lives of at least 26 people, while several others sustained injuries.
He commended the courage of residents, noting that they resisted the attackers and reportedly neutralised some of the bandits.
Mudi, on behalf of the state government, extended condolences to the affected families and prayed for the repose of the victims, as well as the recovery of the injured.
Speaking during the visit, the Speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, commended the community for defending itself and said the Assembly may consider legislation to allow communities to bear arms for self-defence within constitutional limits.
Also, the Chief Imam of Bunkasau, Malam Abubakar, appreciated the visit and said the community had endured repeated attacks but recently mounted resistance against the assailants.
He appealed to the government to provide additional support to strengthen local security.
The deputy governor was accompanied by other government officials, including the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ahmad Garba Yandi, and the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Mannir Fura Girke.
