Shinkafi Rejects Calls for Emergency Rule in Zamfara

Sani Shinkafi, a former special adviser on inter-governmental affairs to ex-Zamfara State Governor Bello Matawalle, has strongly opposed calls for a state of emergency in Zamfara.

Shinkafi denounced these calls as baseless, arguing that the state is experiencing peace, stability, and economic growth. He labeled those advocating for emergency rule as “enemies of the people” and urged security agencies to investigate their motives and backers.

Speaking in a statement on Thursday, Shinkafi, who also serves as the Executive Director of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, emphasized that removing a governor, deputy, or state legislators through such means is unconstitutional. He called on President Bola Tinubu to disregard the demands, describing them as politically motivated by unsuccessful politicians.

“It is outrageous that some failed politicians would sponsor youths and their associates to push for a state of emergency when Zamfara is witnessing improved security, economic revival, and infrastructural development. The state suffered over 13 years of banditry before Governor Dauda Lawal took office in 2023,” Shinkafi stated.

He praised President Tinubu and the military for their ongoing efforts to combat armed banditry in Zamfara and the wider North West region, aligning with the 1999 Constitution’s provision that prioritizes the security and welfare of the people.

Shinkafi further stressed that suspending a governor through an emergency declaration is illegal and undemocratic, citing Supreme Court rulings. He pointed out that the 1999 Constitution outlines the proper procedures for removing a governor (Section 188) and declaring a state of emergency (Section 305), neither of which apply to Zamfara.

“No rational citizen will take these political agitators seriously. If President Tinubu were to declare a state of emergency based on their argument, then all 36 states and Abuja would be affected, given the presence of various criminal elements nationwide,” he argued.

According to Shinkafi, Governor Lawal has been providing “strong, progressive, and visionary leadership” while collaborating with federal authorities to restore order in Zamfara. He urged politicians to abandon divisive politics and focus on rebuilding the state, strengthening economic activities, and delivering democratic dividends to the people.

“Governor Lawal was elected to serve. He should be allowed to perform his duties without undue distractions,” Shinkafi concluded.