State of Emergency: Shinkafi Rejects Call to Remove Gov Lawal

Speaking on behalf of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, Shinkafi alleged that such demands are being driven by failed politicians seeking to take control of the state through unconstitutional means, aiming to exploit its resources and worsen the people’s plight.

He labeled these individuals as “expired politicians” and urged President Bola Tinubu and all democrats to dismiss their actions as self-serving and baseless.

According to Shinkafi, these actors are deliberately trying to disrupt Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration and throw the state back into chaos, as seen before Lawal took office on May 29, 2023.

He accused the critics of being driven by narrow interests and lacking understanding of the 1999 Constitution, especially concerning the legal grounds for removing an elected governor or declaring a state of emergency. He said that imposing a sole administrator on the state would be unconstitutional and undemocratic.

Shinkafi emphasized that Zamfara does not meet any constitutional requirements for such drastic actions and warned that pushing such an agenda would only incite unnecessary political tension.

He reaffirmed that Nigeria is guided by the rule of law, not by force or authoritarianism. He expressed confidence that President Tinubu, a committed democrat, would not support undemocratic calls made by those rejected at the polls.

He called on politicians in Zamfara to respect democratic norms, practice responsible politics, and abandon divisive tactics that hinder progress.

Shinkafi praised the collaborative efforts of President Tinubu, security forces, and Governor Lawal in tackling banditry in Zamfara, resulting in better security, improved public safety, and increased development across the state.

He noted that this security progress has revitalized the economy, enhanced social services, and led to infrastructure growth. He also highlighted the implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage for civil servants and Governor Lawal’s promise to resolve issues concerning senior civil servants.

He concluded that attempts to derail Governor Lawal’s administration would not succeed, describing him as a determined and capable leader focused on delivering good governance through his Rescue Mission. Shinkafi advised politicians to put aside premature campaign agendas for 2027 and focus instead on the development and peace of Zamfara State.