18/09/2026
Copied from Mansur Haruna Mustapha
PRESS RELEASE
CLARIFICATION ON THE ISSUE OF INSECURITY IN ZAMFARA STATE AND THE POSITION OF H.E. SENATOR KABIR GARBA MARAFA, OFR, CON
Friday 18th September, 2026
The attention of the Office of the Director-General, New Media Team, has been drawn to various interpretations and commentaries concerning the position of H.E. Senator Kabir Garba Marafa, OFR, CON, ( Marafan Gusau) on the persistent insecurity in Zamfara State.
We wish to clarify the Senator’s position and put the record straight.
During a recent interview with Lead FM in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State, members of the public were given the opportunity to call in and ask questions. A significant number of callers raised questions concerning insecurity, which remains one of the most pressing challenges confronting the people of the state.
In response, H.E. Senator Kabir Garba Marafa explained that, while he has a clear strategy for addressing the security situation, it would not be appropriate to publicly disclose operational details of such a strategy. He, however, made it clear that the responsibility for restoring lasting peace in Zamfara State is shared between the Federal and State Governments.
The Senator further stated that, if elected Governor, he would devote himself to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities within the first two years of his administration while ensuring that the Federal Government also plays its required role in addressing the security challenges facing the state.
He went further to make a clear commitment: if, within that period, he is unable to effectively influence and coordinate the necessary actions at both the state and federal levels towards restoring peace and security in Zamfara State, he would resign from office.
This position is consistent with Senator Marafa’s record of standing by his word.
For example, during his tenure as Commissioner for Education in Zamfara State, he was informed at a meeting with school principals that some principals were allegedly considered superior to the Commissioner in certain circumstances. Senator Marafa made it clear that such a situation would not be acceptable under his watch and that he would resign if it occurred.
When a situation arose that he considered inconsistent with that position, he tendered his resignation as Commissioner for Education. Following subsequent clarification by the state government and approval of his decision, he eventually resumed his responsibilities. This episode remains an illustration of his willingness to attach consequences to commitments he makes publicly.
It is therefore misleading to suggest that Senator Marafa’s position on insecurity is merely a political strategy designed to attract sympathy or votes.
For years, Senator Marafa has publicly raised concerns about insecurity in Zamfara State and advocated for stronger efforts to restore peace and protect the lives and livelihoods of citizens. His advocacy has not been limited to his immediate constituency; he has consistently spoken about the broader security challenges affecting the people of Zamfara State.
Indeed, there were periods when his position on the security situation attracted criticism from members of his own political camp in the state. This history makes it inaccurate to characterize his longstanding advocacy for peace and security as a recent political calculation.
Senator Marafa’s position is straightforward: the people of Zamfara State deserve peace, security, and an accountable government capable of working with the Federal Government and all relevant institutions to confront the security challenges facing the state.
Furthermore, the warm reception accorded H.E. Senator Kabir Garba Marafa during his recent visits to Zamfara State, including the unveiling of his campaign team, reflects the enthusiasm and support expressed by many members of the public. The large crowds that welcomed him are a notable indication of the public interest surrounding his political activities and message.
We therefore urge the public to disregard misleading interpretations of his statements and consider his words within their proper context and in light of his documented record of public service.
Senator Kabir Garba Marafa remains committed to providing purposeful leadership, accountability, and a determined approach to the challenges confronting Zamfara State.
Signed:
Mansur M. Haruna
Director-General, New Media Team
Office of H.E. Senator Kabir Garba Marafa, OFR, CON
(Marafan Gusau)
