Minister of Defence Denies Secret Negotiations with Bandits in Zamfara State

 The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has categorically denied allegations that the federal government was secretly negotiating with bandits in Zamfara State without the knowledge of the state government.

The Minister's statement comes in response to remarks attributed to Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, in which the governor alleged that the federal government was engaged in negotiations with Zamfara terrorists to secure the release of abducted individuals.

Minister Abubakar dismissed the governor's claim, emphasizing that the federal government is diligently working to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals. He stated that the "Federal Government is working assiduously round the clock to ensure that the girls and others return home."

In a statement issued by the acting Director of Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, Attari Hope, the Minister expressed confidence in the joint security task forces currently engaged in rescue operations. He affirmed that these forces are working tirelessly to secure the release of the abducted students and others.

Furthermore, the Minister clarified that the Ministry of Defence has not authorized any individual or group to negotiate on behalf of the Federal Government. He underlined President Bola Tinubu's directive to the military and other security agencies to prioritize efforts to secure the release of those who were abducted in Zamfara State.

The Minister's statement aims to address concerns and speculations surrounding the situation in Zamfara and reaffirms the government's commitment to resolving the crisis and ensuring the safety of the abducted individuals.