Gov Lawal reacts to gruesome murder of guards in Zamfara ambush

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has expressed his sorrow over the deaths of nine Community Protection Guards (CPG) who were ambushed by bandits on the outskirts of Tsafe local government area.

The fatal attack occurred on Monday at a checkpoint, where the guards were targeted by a group of bandits fleeing recent military pressure.

Governor Lawal, in a statement released by his spokesman, Sulaiman Bala Idris, described the ambush as a “barbaric act committed by dispersed bandits on the run.”

The governor praised the bravery of the Community Protection Guards and other security forces, highlighting their role in protecting Zamfara’s citizens amid ongoing insecurity.

“I received the unfortunate report of an ambush by bandits yesterday in Tsafe local government area, during which nine of our brave Community Protection Guards were killed,” Lawal stated.

He solemnly identified the fallen guards: Nasiru Aliyu, Jabiru Hassan, Abdullahi Dangude, Bashar Bawa, Mu’azu Musa, Anas Dahiru, Anas Yakubu, Lawali Yunusa, and another individual.

Labelling the ambush as “cowardly,” Lawal noted that the bandits involved were already “on the run due to sustained troop onslaught across the state.”

He emphasized that security operations will persist, promising a continued offensive against bandits in Zamfara and the wider region.

Lawal extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the guards, saying, “Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.” He assured them that the state government is dedicated to providing necessary support for the families of the slain frontline guards.