Ex Governor Matawalle Explains Why He decided to Dialogue with Bandits [VIDEO]

The Minister of State for Defence and former Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle elaborated on his controversial decision to engage in dialogue with bandits during his tenure.

This decision, he explained, was heavily influenced by advice from various stakeholders within the state. Matawalle revealed that upon assuming office, he was confronted with the grim reality of rampant banditry and violence.

Seeking a solution, he initiated a comprehensive consultation process. "I looked at the scenario, what is happening? Why are bandits killing people at present?" he pondered. To address these pressing questions, he convened meetings with traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, and community leaders, including the Fulani and Asa clan leaders. "I heard from each group differently. I didn’t combine them," Matawalle stated, emphasizing the thoroughness of his approach. After gathering insights from these diverse groups, he then engaged the state's security apparatus, which included the Army, police, DSS, immigration, and civil defence.

"Based on the recommendation we have from the people of the state, the traditional rulers... the best solution at the time was to have a dialogue with the bandits and it was a success," he concluded. Matawalle also addressed allegations of sponsoring bandits, firmly denying any such involvement.

He shows that the dialogue initiative was a collective effort aimed at restoring peace and was driven by the residents' desire for tranquility in Zamfara State.