The Inter-Party Advisory Council of Nigeria (IPAC), Zamfara State Chapter, has called on the Federal and Zamfara State Government to take necessary measures towards addressing escalating security challenges and economic hardship in the state.
The State IPAC Chairman, Sulaiman Salisu Bungudu made the call in Gusau on Tuesday at the press briefing.
Bungudu noted that the call became necessary and followed a councils’ emergency meeting and extensive consultations with member political parties, community leaders, and other stakeholders in the 14 LGAs of the state.
He said the Federal Government of Nigeria should give Zamfara State the priority attention it deserves through enhanced security operations and accelerated development interventions.
The council urged Federal Government to improve performance in the ongoing Zaria-Funtua-Gusau-Sokoto dual carriage way project considering its importance in addressing security, and improving the economy.
The council also called on Governor Dauda Lawal, to take urgent and practical measures to strengthen security, provide timely agricultural support, ensure equitable distribution of development projects across all the 14 LGAs of Zamfara and improve the welfare of the people.
The Council further urged elected representatives, particularly members of the National Assembly representing Zamfara State, to intensify efforts in advocating for the interests, security, and welfare of their constituents.
IPAC expressed concerns over the worsening socio-economic and security situation confronting the people of Zamfara State.
“As the umbrella body of all registered political parties, IPAC remains committed to promoting democratic governance, accountability, transparency, and the protection of the welfare and interests of the citizens.
After a careful assessment of the current situation in the state, IPAC Zamfara made the following observations:
“Escalating insecurity: banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on innocent communities continue unabated, resulting in the loss of lives, displacement of families, and destruction of livelihoods across several Local Government Areas.
“Lack of agricultural support, despite the ongoing farming season, many farmers have not received fertilizers, improved seedlings, or other essential agricultural inputs, thereby threatening food production.
“The concentration of infrastructure and development projects in Gusau metropolis while many rural communities remain neglected has created widespread dissatisfaction among citizens.
“IPAC notes with concern the limited engagement of qualified Zamfara indigenes in key appointments and development initiatives, despite the availability of capable professionals within the state.
“IPAC Zamfara also expresses concern over what appears to be inadequate federal attention to the security and developmental challenges facing State,
“Members of the National Assembly from Zamfara State to effectively represent the aspirations of their constituents by advocating for policies, projects, and resources that will improve the lives of the people.
“Traditional rulers, civil society organizations, development partners, and all citizens to continue supporting peaceful coexistence while demanding transparency, accountability, and good governance through lawful and democratic means.
“IPAC Zamfara remains committed to constructive engagement with governments at all levels and will continue to advocate for policies and actions that promote peace, justice, sustainable development, and the overall well-being of the people of Zamfara State.”