Abuja – A member of the House of Representatives, Aminu Sani Jaji, has raised alarm over the worsening security situation in Zamfara State, calling on the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive action. Representing Kaura Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency, Jaji accused armed bandits of seizing control of parts of his constituency, where they allegedly operate with impunity and have become the de facto authorities.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, the lawmaker warned that the situation was rapidly deteriorating and stressed the need for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to receive a truthful and undistorted briefing from security chiefs.
“I doubt if Mr. President is being told the whole truth about what is happening in Zamfara and the North-West,” Jaji said. “There is a need for a complete overhaul of our security architecture. The people in my constituency are suffering, and many have been displaced. These bandits are no longer hiding—they’re in charge.”
Jaji, who chaired the House Committee on National Security and Intelligence in the 8th Assembly, rejected suggestions that Nigeria should rely on foreign mercenaries to address its internal security issues. He insisted that the nation possesses adequate manpower but emphasized the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and proactive security strategies.
The lawmaker also opposed the calls for the declaration of a state of emergency in Zamfara State, describing such a move as misplaced.
“If you want to declare emergency rule in Zamfara, what about the over 20 other states grappling with insecurity?” he queried. “Emergency rule is not the solution. What we need is coordinated, sincere, and sustained action.”
Jaji called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, community leaders, and government officials to combat insecurity across northern Nigeria. He further appealed for immediate relief assistance for displaced persons in his constituency, many of whom, he said, have lost their homes and livelihoods due to repeated attacks.
As security challenges continue to plague several parts of the country, Jaji’s appeal underscores growing concerns over the effectiveness of the current response to insecurity and the urgent need for strategic reforms.
