Zamfara Governor Rejects N300M Ransom, Advocates State Police

Zamfara Governor Bello Matawalle disclosed during a town hall conference in Abuja that he refused to pay a N300 million ransom demanded by kidnappers for the release of his brother, who was abducted in 2019. He stated that paying ransoms only strengthens criminal networks and encourages further kidnappings.

Matawalle emphasized that he would not negotiate with criminals, regardless of the circumstances. He called for the establishment of state police as part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity in Nigeria, arguing that the current security architecture lacks adequate control and accountability.

He noted that the Zamfara state government has invested 30 percent of its finances in security operations over the past three years, acquiring 500 operational vehicles and 35 armored personnel carriers to combat banditry. Matawalle also mentioned the acquisition of surveillance drones to enhance security operations, advocating for improved funding, welfare, and training for security personnel rather than negotiating with armed groups.