Zamfara launches community protection guard to tackle kidnapping, banditry

 

In a significant development aimed at tackling the prevailing challenges of banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities in Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal inaugurate the steering committee responsible for the formation of the Community Protection Guard (CPG), a pivotal initiative in enhancing security within the state.

Governor Lawal launched the security initiative while presiding over a critical session of the Zamfara State Security Council. The meeting, held at the Government House in Gusau, saw the participation of key figures from the state’s security agencies.

Sulaiman Bala Idris, the Governor’s spokesperson, highlighted the key outcomes of the session, stating, “At the State Security Council meeting, Governor Dauda Lawal commended the dedicated efforts of the security forces, who put their lives on the line to ensure peace and security in Zamfara.”

Governor Lawal received a comprehensive update on the status of individuals who had been kidnapped, along with the measures taken to ensure their safe return. The heads of the security agencies provided detailed assessments of the progress made in implementing prior security measures and put forth recommendations for further enhancements.

Moreover, Governor Dauda Lawal formally inaugurated the Steering Committee tasked with establishing the Community Protection Guards. This committee, chaired by the State Deputy Governor, Malam Mani Malam Mumini, comprises members drawn from various relevant stakeholders and organizations.

The primary mission of the committee is to devise an actionable framework for the immediate commencement of Community Protection Guard activities. In light of past challenges posed by the banned ‘Yan Sa Kai’ group and insights gleaned from security agency reports, the committee will work to develop practical strategies for establishing the Community Protection Guard across the state.

Specifically, the committee will focus on outlining the structure, Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), enabling legislation, and compensation schemes for the Community Protection Guard at the state, local government, and ward levels. Additionally, it will recommend best practices for personnel recruitment to ensure the selection of qualified individuals for these roles.

The committee is empowered to take any necessary steps to ensure the successful completion of its assignment and is expected to submit a comprehensive report within 30 days.

This multi-faceted approach, combining a comprehensive security council meeting and the establishment of the Community Protection Guards, underscores the state government’s commitment to addressing security challenges while engaging relevant stakeholders to enhance the safety and well-being of Zamfara State residents.