Gov. Dauda Lawan of Zamfara has called on residents of the state to expose the hideouts of criminals terrorising the state.
Lawan made the appeal while declaring open a two-day Joint Security Agents and Community Leaders’ Dialogue and Learning Workshop, in Gusau on Tuesday.
The workshop has the theme: “Human Right and Protection of Civilians.”
The Governor said that the support of the civil populace would greatly help security agencies to end banditry and other crimes in the state.
Lawan, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Nakwada, said people of the state should volunteer timely information in support of security operations.
The Governor assured that security remained the centerpiece of his administration, and will not compromise on that.
“If civilians cooperate and share vital information with security agencies the fight against banditry and other crimes in the state will be successful,” he added.
Lawan also called on security agencies to operate within the rules of engagement and seek for necessary advice and cooperation from local communities.
“The State Government will soon come up with it’s security framework that will assist the security agencies in carrying out their mandate,” he assured.
Earlier, the Programme Manager, International Alert, Anicetus Atakpu, said the workshop was organised to create synergy between security agencies and communities.
“The fight against insurgency can never yield result if there is no harmony between security operative and civilians.
“The cardinal objectives of the workshop include understanding the needs and challenges of security agencies, building relationship between security agents and communities, and highlighting the needs of communities,” Atakpu said.