GENDER VIOLENCE: GOVERNOR MATAWALLE INAUGURATES 22 MEMBER COMMITTEE.

His Excellency, the Zamfara State Executive Governor Hon Dr. Bello Mohammed MON (Matawallen Maradun) has today inaugurated the state's Committee for the Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence Against Women and Children reiterating his administration's resolve in giving fair represention to women by his government through appointments and targeted social intervention schemes so as to make them less susceptible to all forms of manipulation.

He said as a responsible government ever willing to safeguard the lives of its people and promoting their wellbeing, it will take  decisive steps to bring an end to the culture of violence against women and children whom he said have suffered enough from displacement and other difficult conditions as a result of banditry in some communities of the state.

He assured that his government will continue to collaborate with non-governmental groups to develop the needed synergy to achieve the desired objective of creating awareness on the plight of women and children as well as ways of combatting the problems noting that Islam has already given women a pivotal of nursing and nurturing the society which the government will build on, especially by using the woman virtues to eradicate banditry and bring development.

He said his administration is  implementing a women empowerment programme piloted by the First Lady, restructured the Ministry of Women Affairs to include children and will continue to target women and children with appropriate policies that will improve their lots and promote the wellbeing of societies. 

Matawalle also assured that his administration will remain committed to preventing violence against women and sustain the current efforts to identify ways of mitigating these heinous crimes against humanity as well as execute all legislations relating to issues of children and women.

According to him, already, the State House of Assembly is working on the domestication of the Child Rights Act to which he promised to assent into law as soon as it is passed by the House. 

Other proposed legislations such as Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law and New Model Penal Code would equally be given due consideration as soon as the legislative processes are completed calling on the general public, most especially parents, guardians, teachers and other community leaders to be alive to their responsibility of ensuring that women and children are protected against all forms of violence, molestation and abuse. 

In her speech, the First Lady of the state, Hajiya Aisha Bello Matawalle who is also the Chairperson of the Committee, commended the governor for his unflinching support in the fight against gender-based violence against women and children in the state.

She lauded the Matawalle led administration's direction in improving the standard of living of the citizens of the state especially women and children.

While assuring to do her best in discharging the responsibility of the 22-member Committee to free the state from all forms of gender-based violence, the first lady implored people of the state particularly women at high levels to educate parents and guardians on the dangers of gender-based violence especially against women and children.

The inaugural event was attended by the State Deputy Governor, Barr. Mahdi Aliyu Gusau, Speaker, Zamfara State House of Assembly, Hon Nasiru Maazu Magarya, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Bala Bello Maru, Deputy Chief of Staff Government House, Dr. Bashir Mohammed Maru, Commissioners and Special Advisers among others. 

YUSUF IDRIS GUSAU 

Director General Media, Public Enlightenment and Communications. 

Government House, Gusau. 

30th November, 2020

DISCLAIMER! DISCLAIMER!!

My attention has been drawn to a memo purportedly issued by the Office of the Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Zamfara State singned by me detailing plans to rig the forthcoming State House of Assembly bye elect for Bakura State Constituency in favour of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). 

For the records it should be made clear that no semblance of such memo or communication in any form related to the content of the said memo emanated from the Office of the Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Zamfara State or that of the Deputy Chief of Staff. The intention of the publishers have therefore been made baldly clear to wit a desperate attempt to blackmail the Zamfara State Government, whip the Peoples Democratic Party into submission and gain the sympathy of President Muhammadu Buhari to tilt Federal might in favour of the All Progressives Congress's Candidate.

It is imperative to make it clear that the spurious memo filled with lexical errors is totally incongruent with any correspondence that has emanated from our government. The discerning public is invited to note the following anomalies which lend incontrovertible credence to the fact that the said Memo was fabricated by detractors of the Zamfara State Government:

i. The letterhead on which the said leaked  Memo was issued is fake. It should be noted that the original letterhead bears the following inscription "ZAMFARA STATE OF NIGERIA Office of the Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor".

ii. The signature appended on the said memo is fake and not a semblance of the signature of the Deputy Chief of Staff.

iii. The title and name of the Deputy Chief of Staff appears on every memo as "Dr. Bashir M. Maru" and not "Dr. Bashir Maru".

iv. The name of the Governor does not appear on official Memos and for external correspondence, the Governor is addressed as "Hon. (Dr.) Bello Mohammed, MON (Matawallen Maradun)" the title "Barden Kasar Hausa" does not appear at all.

Suffice it to say that the incoherence of the fake Memo which is filled with grammatical errors has exposed the desperation of the authors and purveyors of this banal script.

We are aware of the antics and intent of those propagating this falsehood. We are aware that the fake memo has been submitted to the APC National Caretaker Chairman - His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni - to prove their hard work and investigative prowess. However, we remain certain he will not be blinded by Party sentiment and will see through their veil of cheap lies against us. We are aware that this same memo is being dangled before Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu in desperation to raise money from him with a promise to deliver Zamfara State come 2023. We are also aware that the memo is being used as a plinth for mounting pressure on the President to militarize the forthcoming bye election so they can easily have thier way to rig the elections; we trust however that Mr. President will remain above board and abide by the enduring principles of democracy. We are also aware that the purported memo is meant to pitch the Independent National Electoral Commission against the State Government. 

The authors of the fake memo  have by this act inadvertently expressed their inability to withstand the grassroots strength of the political leaders they mentioned in their memo . Their warped logic is to ensure these Party men are victimized and hindered from all forms of legitimate involvement in the forthcoming bye election. The proponents of the memo have clearly lost touch with the masses and are bent on bullying their way through against fair and legal means of the game at all costs.

They are currently moving with frenetic desperation from one house to another distributing "Atampa" to almost every household. However, the people have not forgotten that they are the same band who subjected them freely to the oppression of bandits not too long ago before the current administration came on board.

While advising the general public to discountenance the banal memo, we use this medium to call on the Security Agencies to immediately swing into action to uncover, apprehend and prosecute the culprits behind this dastardly deed. They should be further investigated for possible links to the bandits sending letters to towns and villages as the content of the memo is akin to those that come from the bandits.

In conclusion, we know this memo is only a part of a web of sinister actions geared at rigging the election. The other plans which include importing thugs from neighboring States to wreck havoc and intimidate the electorate will also fail as our people are now wiser than before.

May the principles of democracy prevail.

Dr. Bashir. M. Maru

Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS)

22/11/2020

ZAMFARA PEACE INITIATIVE: GOVERNOR BELLO MATAWALLE RESCUES 11 KIDNAPPED VICTIMS WITHOUT PAYING RANSOM

His Excellency The Executive Governor of Zamfara State Hon Dr Bello Muhammed MON (Matawallen Maradun) has again facilitated the unconditional rescue of 11 kidnapped victims without paying any ransom but through the carrot and stick initiative of his Administration in the state.

Governor Bello Muhammed Matawalle received the rescued kidnapped victims yesterday night at the Government House, Gusau in furtherance to his carrot and stick approach to ensure lasting peace and tranquility in all parts of the state and beyond.

The victims, 10 males and a female are from Bukkuyum local Government Area of the State.

While receiving the kidnapped victims, Governor Bello Matawalle assured that his Administration will not rest on its oars  until total peace is achieved in all parts of the state.

The Governor explained that the peace accord and reconciliation process with repentant bandits will be sustained in the state, while those unrepentant ones will face the full wrath of the law.

The Matawallen Maradun directed that the victims should be taken to the Hospital to ascertain their Health status before their final release to their respective families.

Earlier while presenting the kidnapped victims to the Governor, the State Commissioner of Security and Home Affairs, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammed Dauran told the Governor that the victims were released as a result of the Governor's peace initiative and following a stakeholders meeting summoned by Governor Matawalle with all the critical stakeholders from Bukkuyum local Government Area which held on Thursday.

The rescued victims expressed delight and boundless gratitude to Governor Bello Matawalle whom they described as the peace maker and bridge builder between all the categories of people in the state.

The rescue of the victims who hail from Bukkuyum local Government  is coming just few days after Governor Matawalle held a meeting on security with all the critical stakeholders from the local Government Area in order to further discuss avenues of achieving peace and harmony.

The victims were received in the presence of some members of the National Assembly from the state that included Senator representing Zamfara Central Senatorial District, Senator Hassan Muhammed Nasiha, and his counterpart of Zamfara West Senatorial District, Alh. Lawal Hassan Dan Iya Anka, as well as some senior Government officials.

JAMILU ILIYASU BIRNIN MAGAJI

Press Secretary to the Governor of Zamfara State

21/11/2020

ZAMFARA'S GOVERNOR MATAWALLE REPRESENTED BY HIS DEPUTY AT ABUJA PDP NATIONAL CAUCUS AND 90TH NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEETING.

The PDP National Caucus and 90th National Executive Committee meetings were held separately on Wednesday and Thursday 18th and 19th November, 2020 respectively. 

Both occasions were chaired by the Party's National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus.

Briefing Journalists shortly after the meeting at the PDP Headquarters, Wadata Plaza,Abuja, Zamfara Deputy Governor who represented the State Executive Governor Dr. Bello Muhammad (Matawallen Maradun) said the meeting reviewed what has transpired in the country during the Covid 19 Pandemic that claim many lives of Nigerians, and rendered stagnant of the country's economy.

 He further explained the recent incident of End SARS protests as another factor that warranted the Federal Government inability to deliver to the expectation of Nigerians.

Barrister Mahdi Aliyu also said the NEC in session condemned the excessive increase in prices of both electricity and petroleum products, describing the action as a total failure of the APC led administration in the country. 

According him, the meeting also invites all Nigeria youths, pillars of every meaningful and sustainable development, to join the PDP and actively participate in all the elective positions for them to contribute their quota in nation building. 

The meeting also discussed the failure of the Federal Government to curtail insecurity in the country despite its numerous assurances to Nigerians in that respect.

 The session encouraged all PDP stakeholders and gave hope to Nigerians that People's Democratic Party would take over, reposition and transform the country in all aspects of human endeavours, come 2023 onward.

He also said he presented the newly appointed State PDP Chairman to the National leadership Alhaji Tukur Umar Danfulani Maikatako for formal introduction to the NEC and other higher level members of the Party in the country.

The Deputy Governor was accompanied to the two occasions by the PDP State Cahirman Alhaji Tukur Umar Danfulani, Senator representing Zamfara North Alhaji Sahabi Ya'u Kaura, State PDP Publicity Secretary

69 FORMER COUNCILLORS AND 14 FORMER LOCAL GOVERNMENT SECRETARIES DUMP YARI FOR MATAWALLE IN ZAMFARA STATE.

Governor Bello Muhammed Matawallen Maradun yesterday received 69 former Councillors and 14 Local Government Council secretaries who dumped former Governor Abdulaziz Yari and the APC for the Peoples Democratic Party PDP in the state.

According To The Press Secretary to the Governor of Zamfara State Jamilu Iliyasu Birnin Magaji Says The decampees who served as elected Councillors between 2012, 2015 to 2019 respectively defected from the All progressives Congress APC to the Peoples Democratic party PDP under the auspices of the state chapter of the Ex-councillors Forum.

The leader of the Ex-councillors, Alh Tukur Muhammed Magami said their decision to leave their former boss followed their strong believe in the leadership style of Governor Bello Muhammed Matawallen Maradun, especially in the fight against insecurity and his provision of good political atmosphere in all parts of the state.

He said, the present administration led by the Matawallen Maradun has proved that it is a government for all as it has not victimize or threaten the political affiliation of members of other political parties in the state.

According to the forum leader, such an administration needs the coming together and support of all and sundry for it to continue to provide democratic dividends to all citizens in the state.

He assured that all their followers and supporters including their family members share the same opinion and declaration to the Matawalle led government and have decided to join the PDP with the prayers that they too will be carried along for the development of the state.

Similarly, spokesman of the former local Government council secretaries Alhaji Saadu Mayana expressed confidence in Matawalle's ability to transform the state to the envy of others in the country.

He also alligned with the councillors saying on behalf of the former council secretaries of the 14 local government areas of the state, they have unanimously resolved to join the PDP government in the state under Matawalle towards a better Zamfara.

 In his response, Governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle who expressed happiness while receiving the PDP new entrants noted that his call will always be for all well meaning citizens in the state to join him in moving the state forward.

He muted that his idea of tranforming the state to an enviable position can easily be actualized if everyone joins him in this regard, especially in the fight against insecurity.

The governor said, his doors will remain open for all to join him in order to fashion out the best approaches to the development of the state.

GOVERNOR MATAWALLE LAUDS THE CONSTRUCTION WORK OF GOVERNOR'S LODGES ACROSS THE 14 LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN THE STATE

His Excellency, Zamfara State Executive Governor Hon. Dr. Bello Mohammed MON (Matawallen Maradun) has commended the contractor handling the construction work of Bungudu Local Government Governors Lodge for carrying out a very excellent work that will stand the test of the time

The Governor made the commendation today when he paid an inspection visit to the ongoing construction work of Bungudu Governor's lodge awarded by his administration

Matawalle said he is satisfied with the quality of work so far executed and urged the contractor to maitain the standard according to the contractual agreement

He explained that his administration inherited a dilapidated govenor's lodge and in some local governments, there is even no place where government official will stay during a working visit to the  local government areas which needs to be done since but were left undone by the previous administration

He Promised to change the pace of local governments administration through construction of befitting staff quarters and government lodges across the 14 local governments in order to reduce too much expenses on  accommodation 

The Governor also inspected the Bungudu Town Hall Centre where he instructed for the expansion of the existing structure from 200 to 400 capacity 

Conducting the Governor round the ongoing construction work Engr. Hudu Muhammad assured the Governor of his company's readiness to execute the constractor according to the specification given and building standards. 

The Governor was accompanied by Former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Mukhtar Ahmed Anka, Ambassador Bashir Yuguda Gusau, Head of Service, Alhaji Kabiru Balarabe,Deputy Chief of Staff,Dr. Bashir Mohammed Maru, Commissioners of Finance, Special Duties, Local Government and Community Development, Works and Transport, Rabiu Garba,Muhammad Maiturare Sadiq, Chado Gora and Ibrahim Isah Mayana respectively. 

Others include Permanent Secretary Ministry for Local government and community development Alhaji Abubakar Jaafar Maradun, Principal Private Secretary, Alhaji lawal Umar Director General Office of the Executive Governor, Alhaji Lawal Hussein and Director General Protocol Matters among others. 

YUSUF IDRIS GUSAU 

Director General Media, Public Enlightenment and Communications. 

Government House, Gusau

15th November, 2020

GOVERNOR MATAWALLE VISITS HIS SICK CAMPAIGN COORDINATOR ALHAJI LAWALI SIDDI AT HIS RESIDENCE IN BUNGUDU

His Excellency, the Zamfara State Executive Governor, Hon. Dr. Bello Mohammed MON (Matawallen Maradun) today visited his Bungudu Local Government Campaign Coordinator Alhaji Lawali Siddi Bungudu Popularly known as Dan-Kota at his residence in Bungudu town who has been ill for over six months now.

Governor Matawalle instantly directed his personal Physician Dr. Abdulkadir Aliyu Shinkafi to immediately take the ill Coordinator to Usman Danfodio Teaching hospital for better medication. 

He assured the families of the Coordinator that the state Government will shoulder all the medical bills that will be incurred at the hospital. 

He added that his administration will ensure proper support to all citizens in the state medically and otherwise and is determined to improve the health facilities at all levels in the state. 

Matawalle who was not happy with his Coordinator's situation, prayed for his quick recovery from all ailments.

The Coordinator who is visibly happy with the Governors visit informed the Governor that for the past six months he has been battling with the ailment and that he underwent different medical tests at Yariman Bakura Specialist hospital, Gusau and the federal Medical Centre, Gusau but that the health condition has continued to deteriorate. 

Alhaji Lawali Siddi Bungudu thanked the Governor for the concern and love shown to him since the beginning of the ailment and prayed Almighty Allah to reward him abundantly. 

During the Visit the Governor was accompanied by His Honorary Adviser Ambassador Bashir Yuguda Gusau, Former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Mukhtar Ahmed Anka, Deputy Chief of Staff Government House, Dr. Bashir Mohammed Maru, Head of Service Alhaji Kabiru Balarabe, Honourable Commissioners, Special Advisers, Permanent Secretaries and Directors General among others. 

YUSUF IDRIS GUSAU 

Director General Media, Public Enlightenment and Communications. 

Government House, Gusau

15th November, 2020

MATAWALLE ASSENTS TO FOUR STRATEGIC BILLS INTO LAW.

Governor Bello Mohammed (Matawallen Maradun) has assented to four bills passed by the State Legislature into Law.

The new laws include the law creating an official logo for the state Government as a symbol of authority and the establishment of the Directorate for skills acquisition. 

Others include the law amending the Zakkat Board (2013) which includes collection, distribution and endowment and the law establishing the rural water supply and other matters connected therewith. 

The law creating official logo for the state Government stipulates the regulation for its use and appropriate punishment for its abuse. Any official transaction of the government must bear it or the transaction is null and void. 

The law amending the Zakkat Board has now changed the status of the board from part time to full time with one member each to be drawn from the seventeen Emirates of state each. 

The law establishing the Directorate for rural water supply will provide, coordinate, facilitate and maintain supply of portable water to the rural communities of the state. 

The fourth law which is on skill acquisition will seek to train, facilitate and empower the Youth in line with the government policy of job provision for the teeming youth in the state. 

While assenting to the laws, Governor Bello Mohammed assured that his administration will continue to provide people oriented policies and programmes so that the path to building a new Zamfara state will become a dream come true. 

Zailani Bappa 

Special Adviser

Public Enlightenment, Media and Communications. 

12/11/2020

ZAMFARA PEACE DRIVE AND THE THROWERS OF SPANNERS IN THE WORKS.

By Zailani Bappa. 

Security of lives and property in Zamfara State has remained the topmost priority of Governor Bello Mohammed (Matawallen Maradun). Today, we are not the ones saying this. The security agencies and operatives are the ones saying it. And indeed, the people involved. This is as a result of the fallout of efforts put in place and the consistent attention accorded this objective by the Matawalle administration over time. The question on many lips in the last few days is why the resurgence of banditry in pockets of communities in the state, with the recent one claiming multiple of innocent lives?

Fist of all, Governor Bello Mohammed, once again, commiserate with those who lost their dear ones in the recent dastard attacks and pray for the repose of the souls of the deceased. A life lost is like a whole mankind lost. A life saved is like a whole mankind saved. That is why the commitment to save lives deserves any material cost and any cause to lost of life deserves every available punishment by the causative agent.

For onward of one decade, the various communities of Zamfara state have contended with acute unrest and apprehension leading to lost of thousands of lives and billions of naira in property due to the menace of banditry, save for the first one year of Governor Bello Mohammed Administration when the acute and tense situation eased and there was semblance of calm and normal life returning to the people. However, in the recent days and weeks, tension is building up in pockets of our communities, such as in Kauran Namoda, Maru and Talata-Mafara Local Government areas where many lives were lost to blood sucking bandits who sneaked in and paid the communities satanic visits overnight. 

It indeed, to say the least, worrisome to any responsible leader when after hardwork to attain peace, a negative tide begins to blow against the peace constructed and unfortunately, getting momentum in spite of sheer determined resistance to its unwelcome debut. What is more worrisome is how some godforsaken citizens love to fuel the situation to spite the present administration on one hand and portray it to the general public as a failure. To these godforsaken bunch, if Matawalle is seen to have failed, anything is worth it, including sacrificing human lives! 

However, Matawalle is not a man to be brought down on his knees easily. His known characteristic determination to achieve what he wants is all well known. And that is partly what is keeping him above them. He has approached the new menace with constructive challenge which the security operatives themselves are commending. As the Chief Security officer of the state, he could not afford to fail in his all important responsibility of saving lives and property. 

Last week is special in respect of unfolding developments in the state. The efforts of Governor Bello Mohammed has yielded another positive step where President Muhammadu Buhari yielded to some of his passionate demands. One of them is the siting of a drone runway which will commence in a few days time. The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sadiq Abubakar was in Gusau to inspect the site for the project. Governor Matawalle seized the opportunity to warn perpetrators of mayhem that the Government is ready for them. He promised them the worst of their nightmare if they continue to challenge the peace of Zamfara people.

In the same week of this historic visit, Matawalle held a closed door meeting with all the stake holders on Security which included the Heads of Security operatives in the state, the whole of traditional rulers in the state and the Ulama which is the religious leaders in the state. 

As a fallout of that crusial meeting, Governor Matawalle ordered all traditional rulers and Local Government Chairmen to stay put in their domain and never to spend a night away from their people unless on crusial assignments. 

"Hence forth, I forbid any traditional ruler and local government Chairman to stay away the night from his people unless on special circumstances. We will monitor this and the peace situation in all your domains for the next one month", Governor Matawalle told them. 

However, with all the efforts of Governor Bello Matawalle in the drive towards total peace in the state, a lot of bitter enemies of the peace are working round the clock to discredit his good intentions and wonderful steps leading to many escapades in this regard. 

Just recently, his peace initiative with all stake holders which led to the release of over 40 innocent lives from captivity without ransom was challenged; specifically the release of 26 girls from Katsina State who were rescued and sent to Governor Bello Masari for onward transition to their families which became the subject of bad blood. 

Indeed, all well meaning parents whose children were abducted and released into the hands of anyone, even your enemy, will show appreciation and offer thanks for a job well done, especially when the children are delivered safe and unhurt. 

However, supposed parents of the released girls danced to the music played by bitter and Haters of peace to put a lie to Governor Bello Mohammed's claim that the girls were released to him from their captives as part of the initiative of peace run in the state. 

Whatever the case may be, Governor Bello Mohammed has never deceived anyone in his one and half year of peace making in this region. If he were a deceit, his efforts would have compounded the security situation in the state as it did to those who led the state before him. Matawalle administration will not succumb to the spoil of deliberate throwers of spanners in the works. 

God is the ultimate judge of the affairs of men. God has been on the side of truth. He has been on Matawalle's side which translated to the relative peace experienced all this while, in spite of the active machinations of those opposed to peace and those who take pleasure in continuous flow of human blood.

GOVERNOR MATAWALLE LAUNCHES N-PASS PROGRAMME FOR 1 MILLION BENEFICIARIES.

His Excellency Zamfara State Executive Governor Hon Dr. Bello Mohammed MON (Matawallen Maradun) today launched the Nigeria Poverty Alleviation Stipend empowerment programme meant for one million poor people in the state.

The N-PAS scheme which is a United Nations programme is generated by leaders who have concern for the poorest of the poor in their communities in which beneficiaries will receive the sum of N5,000 in their bank account for the improvement of their small scale businesses.

During the launch, governor Matawalle said he has introduced several empowerment schemes some of which are ran through the Office of his wife in Zamfara since his assumption in office last year.

He noted that his administration has recognized the critical importance of fighting poverty and improving economic empowerment to ensuring peace and stability in our communities which is responsible for the establishment of Zamfara State Social Intervention Programme (ZASSIP), under which  8,692 persons drawn from across the 14 Local Government Councils are paid 10,000 naira per month. In contrast, the supervisors and Local  Local Government coordinators of the programme are paid 50,000 naira each per month. 

The special women empowerment programme on the other hand is ran under the Office of the First Lady, through which 1,800 women drawn from across the 14 Local Government Areas are issued a grant of N20,000 each. 

He described the N-PAS scheme as a laudable initiative considering the need for governments at all levels and international groups to intensify efforts to provide the much-needed safety nets for the people, most of whom live on self-subsistence agriculture and other menial economic activities. 

He noted that the beneficiaries were drawn from among victims of banditry while subsequent disbursement, will identify qualified beneficiaries from across the 14 Local Government Areas on an incremental basis until  the target of one million households is arrived at with a total of 2,000 beneficiaries drawn from each Local Government Area in every six months. 

Those in attendance at the event include the Deputy Governor, Barr. Mahdi Aliyu Gusau, Speaker Zamfara State House of Assembly, Honourable Nasiru Maazu Magarya, Head of Service, Alhaji Kabiru Balarabe, Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Bashir Mohammed Maru, Commissioners and Special Advisers among others. 

YUSUF IDRIS GUSAU 

Director General Media,Public Enlightenment and Communications.

Government House, Gusau 

10th November, 2020

MATAWALLE NOW SHETTIMA OF SOKOTO.

The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar has conferred the title of "Shettiman Sakkwato" on His Excellency, Governor Bello Mohammed (Matawallen Maradun).

In a letter conveying the decision of the Sultanate Council to Governor Matawalle, and signed by the Sultan himself, the Sultanate said the title was conferred on him due to his respect and attention accorded the traditional institution over time.

"We noted with satisfaction your administration has accorded high level of respect and attention to the traditional institution which brought about exceptionally improved relationship between the Sultanate Council and your administration", the Sultanate noted.

The letter further said the Sultanate was impressed with the achievements of Governor Bello Matawalle on Security which brought about semblance of peace and stability to Zamfara State. 

It would be recalled that the Daura Emirate, which is assumed as the cradle of all Hausa states, also conferred on Governor Bello Mohammed the title of Barden Hausa which the Emir said was after consultation with all the traditional Hausa states. 

Zailani Bappa

Special Adviser

Public Enlightenment, Media and Communications. 

10/11/2020

FACTS OF MATAWALLE'S DRIVE FOR PEACE AND THE ILL WILL OF ENEMIES OF THE PEACE

It has come to the notice of Zamfara State Government that misguided individuals are spreading false and fabricated information on the laudable efforts of Governor Bello Mohammed (Matawallen Maradun) on yesterday's release of 26 indigent girls of Katsina state.

The story that went viral of the efforts of Governor Bello Mohammed in securing the lives of these young souls and handing them over successfully to Governor Bello Masari was however received with bitterness by enemies of peace and obviously, bitter persons who will wish hell loose than Matawalle's name to soar high.

These misguided persons have since instigated false information that the girls were not rescued by the peace process initiated by Governir Matawalle administration but by ransom paid by the families of the released girls. 

However, the fact remains that the rescued girls were not released on ransom as the genuine families of the girls have since denied the false story. 

His Excellency, Governor Bello Mohammed has never taken any step in the last one year and five months to score any cheap political goal but simply doing his assigned job which he swore to do. Indeed, any iota of dishonesty in his intent or approach would have woefully failed and put the state in jeorpardy as it happened to those leaders preceding him.

Governor Bello Mohammed notes with satisfaction that God has always vindicated him from such machinations and will continue to do so as his only aim so far is to discharge his onerous task of securing lives and property of all Zamfarans and not to deceive them.

Zailani Bappa

Special Adviser

Public Enlightenment Media and Communications. 

9/11/2020

MATAWALLE CONDOLES THE FAMILY OF YANDOTO

Governor Bello Mohammed has condoled the nuclear and the entire Yan Doton Tsafe Family over the sudden demise of Dr Malami Aliyu Yandoto.

Governor Matawalle, who attended the burial rites of the deceased in Tsafe this morning said the late Politician was a a pride to his administration especially with the contributions he has made to the consolidation of the government.

Governor Matawalle said that the loss of late Malami was a loss to the Family, to Tsafe Emirate, to his administration and to the PDP family in the state.

Late Malami Aliyu Yan Doto was an astute politician, a grassroots mobilise and a pervasive consummate Politician in the state. He died in Sokoto yesterday after attending an event. 

Zailani Bappa

Special Adviser

Public Enlightenment, Media and Communications.

8/11/2020

DIALOGUE WITH BANDITS STILL RELEVANT, AS MATAWALLE SECURES RELEASE OF 26 GIRL-MINORS

Governor Bello Mohammed (Matawallen Maradun) has said that dialogue with bandits is still relevant just as he secured the release of 26 Katsina State indegent girls, all of them minors, from bandits without payment of ransom.

The girls who were kidnapped by bandits in Faskari local government area of Katsina state were brought into the bushes of Zamfara state but were miraculously discovered by the state Government and got released through negotiations held under the state Commissioner Of Police and the state Commissioner for Security and Home Affairs who are in constant dialogue on behalf of the Government with bandits in the state on the need to embrace peace and live a normal life. 

Governor Matawalle who received the rescued girls said his administration will not abandon the peace dialogue with bandits as fire power alone cannot solve the problem of banditry in the state. 

He said, "this is a testimony to our vision for engaging the bandits in peace dialogue. For those who believe we are wrong to dialogue with the bandits, the securing of these minors who are all girls, unhurt, is indeed, priceless". 

The 26 rescued girls, whose ages ranges between 8 and 12 were medically checked and provided with new clothes. Governor Matawalle ordered for their safe return to Katsina state. 

This latest rescue brings the total number of those released by bandits in the last one week to more than 40.

Zailani Bappa 

Special Adviser

Public Enlightenment, Media and Communications. 

8/11/2020

INSECURITY: GOVERNOR BELLO MATAWALLE SETS UP SPECIAL AD-HOC COMMITTEE FOR MONITORING, CONSULTATION AND REINFORCEMENT ON GENERAL SECURITY IN ZAMFARA STATE.

Governor Bello Muhammed Matawalle has approved the setting up of a 15 member Special Ad-hoc Committee for Monitoring, Consultation and Reinforcement of General Security Architecture of Zamfara state.

The constitution of the committee followed resolutions reached after a one day security meeting summoned by the Governor with Traditional rulers, the state council of Ulama, Heads of security Agencies in the state, and some senior Government officials at the Government House, Gusau yesterday.

The committee is expected to work tirelessly to checkmate the resurgence of  Armed Banditry, kidnappings and other henious crimes in all parts of the state.

The committee has the Emir of Zamfara and chairman Zamfara state council of chiefs Alhaji Attahiru Muhammed Ahmed CON as chairman, while the Commissioner of Police, Zamfara state, CP Usman Nagogo is to serve as the Co-chairman of the committee.

Other members of the committee include HRH the Emir of Gummi Justice Lawal Hassan Gummi, Emir of  Maru Alhaji Abubakar Gado Maigari, Emir of Zurmi Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Muhammad, Rtd Deputy Inspector General of Police DIG Mamman Tsafe, and the State Director of Security SDS.

Other members of the committee are State Commissioner of Security and Home Affairs Alhaji Abubakar Muhammed Dauran, Representative of General officer Commanding Eight Division GOC, Sheikh Ahmed Umar Kanoma, Executive Chairman Zamfara state Preaching Commission Dr. Muhammed Harun State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Barrister Nura Ibrahim Zarumee, DSP Jafar Muhammed,(Legal), and Alhaji Sarkin Fawa Malami while Abubakar Ahmed of the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) will served as the Secretary of the committee.

The committee is saddled with the responsibility of addressing problems of Security in the state, ensure early response to distress calls, trace instigators and those who aid and abet insecurity in all parts of Zamfara state.

The committee is also to involve all critical stakeholders including Traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, and security agents among others and ensure effective consultation on all matters of Security in the state.

JAMILU ILIYASU BIRNIN MAGAJI

Press Secretary to the Governor of Zamfara State

6/11/2020

MATAWALLE READS THE RIOT ACT ON SECURITY

Governor Bello Mohammed has directed all Emirs and Chiefs in the State to stay put in their domain just as he promised to pay back those aiding insecurity in their own coin.

Governor Matawalle was speaking at the opening of a one day Security meeting with traditional rulers, the Council of Ulama and Heads of Security operatives in the state at the Government House today. 

"Henceforth, no Emir or Chief is allowed to pass a night outside his domain. You must stay with your people at all times to address the problems of Security in your area", Matawalle told the traditional rulers.

"As for those who aid and abet insecurity in the state, I say enough is enough. We shall return your wickedness and heartlessness with the wrath you will never envisage", Matawalle warned perpetrators of crimes in the state.

He said that the state Government has been very lenient due to the nature of the delicate approach to negotiations and peace efforts with bandits in the state. He however, said that the leniency was being taken for granted by bad politicians who chose to compound the insecurity situations in the state.

"All Local Government Chairmen in the state are also directed to state put at their local government areas because they are the Chief Security Officers of their respective areas. It is therefore, prohibited for them to be spending their nights outside their areas unless on crucial official duty", Governor Matawalle directed.

He said that with the recent happenings in the state where scores of attacks are carried out in some parts of the state, it is evident that the hands of bad politicians is in play as confirmed cases of deliberate misinformation was aided by some of them.

"The state Government is doing all it can to maintain peace and order in the state, but some people are obviously more exited when they hear of attacks by bandits. In their bid to portray our administration as a failure, they do not care how many lives of our brothers and sisters are wasted", Matawalle observed.

"Left to me as a person, I will be contented with a one term in office if the price is to lose innocent lives of our people. No leadership is worth it when the price is the blood of the innocent", the Governor noted. He however, said his administration was poised enough to tackle this rascality head-on. 

He then said the orders he has given will be observed for the next three months. According to him, anyone who violates the above orders will cost him his job.

The meeting, which later held behind closed doors was attended by all the traditional rulers in the state, the heads of all security operatives in the state, all the leadership of the Council of Ulama in the state and important Government dignitaries. 

Zailani Bappa

Special Adviser

Public Enlightenment, Media and Communications.

5/11/2020

BANDITRY: GOVERNOR MATAWALLE PLEDGES TO HIT HARD ON THOSE AIDING BANDITRY IN THE STATE

His  Excellency  Zamfara  State Executive Governor, Hon. Dr. Bello Mohammed MON (Matawallen Maradun) has declared total faceo-ff with any person or group found either sponsoring, aiding, abetting or guiding bandits in the state.

The governor made the declaration today when he received the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Saddique Baba Abubakar who was on an official visit at the Government House, Gusau.

Matawalle who was visibly angered by the actions of some mischief makers in the state who have formed the habit of transmitting false information and making heroes out of criminal elements said his administration will no longer treat such blood thirsty individuals with kid glove and warned them to either stop or await terrible consequences of their evil acts.

According to him, the state government in collaboration with security agents have effectively  been using kinetic and non-kinetic approach in addressing security issues but that with the realization of the increasing criminal intents of those aiding the bandits, the government is left with no other option than to appropriately hit hard at such persons in order to put a complete stop on their activities

He revealed that with the provision of CH-4 Unmanned Aerial vehicles (UAV) by the Federal Government to the state, the state government will employ more and new tactical approach in the fight against the bandits expressing confidence that the new measure will bring lasting solution to the menace of armed banditry in the north western states.

Governor Matawalle said a mechanism has been put in place to monitor the activities of all suspected criminally minded people in the state and will not hesitate to take drastic action against them.

He then commended President Muhammadu Buhari for approving the establishment of the UAV in the state noting that the singular gesture will  go a long way in facilitating the activities of the security operatives involved in the fight against armed banditry in Zamfara and its neighbouring states.

Matawalle who described the president as a man with good heart who always shows concern over the security situation in the state urged the visiting Chief of Air Staff to extent the appreciation of the government and people of Zamfara state over the good efforts of the president to the state.

He assured state government's logistical and other support to all officers and men involved in the fight against terrorism in the state.

Earlier, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Saddique Baba Abubakar informed the governor that he was in the state to assess facilities at the 207 Quick Response Unit of the Nigeria Air Force, Gusau with a view to commence the deployment of addition air assets to Gusau as directed by President Buhari.

He said four UAV will very soon be moved to the state in order to closely monitor all activities of bandits as well as to precisely identify their camps and other hideouts

The air force boss informed the governor that this was the first time in the history of the Nigerian Air Force to acquire such high technology  CH-4 unmanned aerial vehicle.

He explained that a total of eight UAV were deployed to the northern states with two each at Gombe and Borno states while the remaining four which will be stationed in Zamfara will cover states in the north west.

He said the Air Force will soon construct the runway of the UAV in the state for deployment and additional air operational staff.

During the event, Governor Matawalle presented 13 rescued kidnap victims comprising five males, five females and three infants to the Chief of Air Staff.

The governor also used the occation to dispell rumours that the kidnapped persons who hailed from Mutunji village of Maru local government were 53 when they were actually 13.

Those in attendance at the courtesy call were the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Bala Bello Maru, the Head of Service, Alhaji Kabir Balarabe, Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Bashir Mohammed Maru, members of the State Executive Council and royal fathers among others.

YUSUF IDRIS GUSAU 

Director General Media, Public Enlightenment and Communications. 

Government House, Gusau 

05 November, 2020

GOVERNOR MATAWALLE COMMITTED TO ENDING CHILD ABUSE AND TRAFFICKING THROUGH ENGAGEMENT WITH ISLAMIC SCHOLARS AND TRADITIONAL RULERS IN THE STATE

 

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His Excellency, Zamfara State Executive Governor Hon Dr. Bello Mohammed MON (Matawallen Maradun) said his administration is determined to end all forms of child abuses and trafficking in the State through engagement with renowned Islamic scholars and Traditional leaders

The Governor made this known today at a one day Public Hearing on the need to Eradicate child destitution and child trafficking through provision of standardized Education System which held at National Assembly, Abuja 

The Governor who was represented at the Public Hearing by the Commissioner of Women, Children and Social Development, Hajiya Zainab Lawal Gummi said Zamfara State Government is fully committed to ending all forms of child abuses such as Child Labour, Destitution and trafficking through engagement of Islamic Scholars and Traditional rulers in order to have more comprehensive ideas that will guide the implementation of all laws that will be enacted in the state 

He said that a committee has  already been set-up by the State Government on Gender Based Violence and the child destitution which will soon be inaugurated.

The Governor further stated that a bill on the Child Right Act is before the State House of Assembly and has passed first reading which when enacted will make education compulsory to all children of school age in the State. 

Matawalle also drew the attention of the law makers for the need for federal Government Special social intervention to the state considering the number of orphans in the State as a result of years of banditry which orphaned them.

He explained that his administration has created many social intervention programmes with the sole aim of reducing hardship and poverty in many families which by extension will impact positively on the children of the state. 

Declaring the hearing open, Speaker House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila recalled that the Child Rights Act was assented into law by President Olusegun Obasanjo 17 years ago in 2003 but that many states are yet to enact the law that will protect children rights in their states. 

The speaker explained that the Child Rights Act is to ensure that all Nigerian children are protected for the betterment of their future by providing compulsory, free basic education for all children of primary School and junior secondary school age in the country and the law will also provide punishment for the parents who failed to comply with the provision accordingly

He enjoined all participants of the Public hearing to consider the issue of child destitution as one that requires everybody's contribution and support.

During the hearing contributions were made from various state Governments, NYSC, National Bureau of Statistics, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, NAPTIP and UBE among others.

Those who attended from Zamfara included the State Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr.Bashir Muhammad Maru, Commissioner of Special Duties, Honourable Muhammad Maiturare Sadiq, Principal  Private Secretary to the Governor Lawal Umar Maradun and Director General Media, Public Enlightenment and Communications, Mallam Yusuf Idris Gusau. 

YUSUF IDRIS GUSAU 

Director General Media, Public Enlightenment and Communications. 

Government House, Gusau. 

03 November, 2020

ZAMFARA STATE GOVT VOWS TO WORK COLLECTIVELY WITH TRADITIONAL RULERS TO ENDS BANDITRY AND OTHER CRIMES IN THE STATE

Governor Bello Muhammed Matawallen Maradun has vowed to support and work closely with the Traditional rulers in the State to bring an end to Armed Banditry and other criminal activities bedevilling the State.

The Governor announced this on Monday shortly after the Northern States Governors Forum Meeting with Northern States Emirs and chiefs  held on Monday 2nd November 2020 at sir Kashim Ibrahim House Kaduna.

Governor Bello Muhammed Matawalle noted that in recent times Traditional rulers are custodians of peace and security in their domains, and stressed that the resolution of the meeting to give Traditional institutions formal roles in governance architecture of the Nation is a right step in the right direction.

The Matawallen Maradun said already his Administration is engaging critical stakeholders in ensuring that peace and tranquility return to the state, through pervent prayers and stick and carrot approach.

The Governor who attended the meeting alongside his colleagues in the Northern States said the meeting if conducted regularly with pave way for unity in the Region as well as security and economic prosperity of the country.

The meeting was attended by His Excellency, the senate President of the federal Republic of Nigeria, the Honourable Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, and other members of the National Assembly from the North, the chief of Staff to the president, the minister of federal capital Territory, the minister of information and culture,  the Inspector General of Police, Principal officers of the National Assembly, Chairmen of the Northern States Traditional rulers council led by His Eminence the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar, secretaries to the state government from the North among others.

Governor Bello Matawalle was accompanied on the meeting by the secretary to the state Government Alhaji Bala Bello Maru, Emir of Zamfara and chairman Zamfara state council of chiefs Alhaji Attahiru Muhammed Ahmed,  the Emir of Gummi who is also the chairman of the coordinating committee of Norhern Traditional rulers council Justice Lawal Hassan Gummi and Permanent Secretary office of the Executive Governor Alhaji Abubakar Jafar Maradun.

JAMILU ILIYASU BIRNIN MAGAJI

Press Secretary to the Governor of Zamfara state

02/11/2020