Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara has accused powerful individuals based in Abuja of obstructing justice and sabotaging the state’s fight against banditry by influencing the release of suspected criminals.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed magistrates in Gusau, the governor expressed grave concern over the justice system’s handling of high-profile banditry cases.
He revealed that several suspects, including those arrested in Bauchi and Gusau and allegedly found in possession of weapons, were inexplicably granted bail.
According to Governor Lawal, these releases were facilitated by influential Abuja-based figures who assured the suspects of their freedom regardless of the charges.
“These are individuals who have confessed to heinous crimes, yet they walk free because some powerful people in Abuja have intervened,” Lawal stated.
The governor condemned what he described as a deliberate undermining of state efforts to tackle rampant insecurity, including kidnapping, cattle rustling, and violent attacks.
He emphasized the critical role of the judiciary in restoring order and urged the newly sworn-in magistrates to uphold justice without fear or favor.
Governor Lawal also criticized unauthorized negotiations with criminal elements allegedly carried out by individuals in Abuja without the knowledge or involvement of the Zamfara State government. He warned that such actions only worsen the security situation in the region.