Gladness Gideon
A prominent civic organization, the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, has firmly opposed recent calls for a state of emergency in Zamfara State, describing the move as unconstitutional, unnecessary, and politically orchestrated.
In a strongly worded statement on Thursday signed by its Executive Director, Alhaji Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, the group emphasized that Zamfara has recorded significant security gains under the leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal. It warned that declaring a state of emergency would be a retrogressive step that undermines democratic governance and constitutional order.
“The calls for a state of emergency in Zamfara are reckless and politically driven,” the group declared. “Security has improved markedly, and further destabilisation would threaten the progress we are beginning to see.”
The Patriots group attributed the push for emergency rule to political actors bent on disrupting governance through orchestrated unrest and sponsored protests. It urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ignore such calls, citing his consistent commitment to constitutional democracy and rule of law.
Quoting the provisions of Sections 188 and 305 of the 1999 Constitution, the group argued that the legal conditions for imposing emergency rule have not been met in Zamfara. It further referenced a Supreme Court decision which held that a state of emergency does not warrant the removal of democratically elected officials.
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Commending President Tinubu and the Nigerian military for their efforts in stabilising security in the region, the group noted that the improved situation has fostered economic recovery and infrastructural development across the state.
“Zamfara needs rebuilding, not disruption,” the statement continued. “We urge political actors to place the interest of the people above personal ambition. Governance should take precedence over rivalry and distraction.”
Reaffirming its commitment to unity and democratic principles, the group concluded with a call for collaboration among stakeholders to consolidate peace and development.
“Our resolve remains with peace, democracy, and national cohesion. We reject any attempt to subvert the Constitution or derail governance in Zamfara State,” the group stated.