The Zamfara State Government led by Governor Bello Matawalle has declared a total lockdown in three Local Government Areas (LGA) of the state over rising insecurity.
The affected LGAs are Anka, Bukkuyum and Gummi, OsunDaily News understands.
The State Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Ibrahim Dosara, in a communique made available to newsmen on Friday in Gusau, the state capital, said the decision became necessary following the resurgence of criminal elements in the communities.
The statement reads: ”The government announces a lockdown in nine major towns to stop the spate of the attacks on such communities in the affected areas.
”Theese are Yarkofoji, Birnin Tudu, Rini, Gora Namaye, Janbako, Faru, Kaya, Boko and Mada towns.
”Government also announced the closing down of markets in Danjibga and Bagega as well as Colony to Lambar Boko Road, Bakura to Lambar Damri Road and Mayanchi- Daki Takwas to Gummi Road.
”Others are the Daki Takwas to Zuru Road, Kucheri- Bawaganga – Wanke Road, Magami to Dangulbi Road and Gusau to Magami Road.”
The government said the frantic decision will facilitate the efforts of security operatives in dealing with bandits and other criminal elements terrorising communities.
Governor Matawalle also ordered the immediate suspension of all APC meetings and activities as part of his government’s concern and sympathy for the affected people and communities.
He said: “Stakeholders invited for the Friday APC Stakeholders’ Meeting are hereby advised to hold on for a new date for the meeting.
“Furthermore, the government has suspended all political activities in the state till further notice.
“Political meetings and gatherings at individual residences are also banned with immediate effect.”
The Governor expressed sadness over the recent killings of some security operatives fighting criminals in the state.
“Government, therefore, condoled with the families of the victims of the bandits’ attacks and prayed for the repose of the departed souls”, the statement added as it quoted the Governor to have directed security operatives to deal with those found violating the orders.
This article was originally published on OsunDaily News
