A Zamfara-based youth group, Zamfara Youth Concerned Citizens (ZYCC), has criticised the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State, Jibo Magayaki, accusing him of lacking political experience and serving merely as an “errand boy” for Governor Dauda Lawal.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, ZYCC’s secretary, Comrade Nura Ibrahim Gusau, condemned Magayaki’s remarks on national security matters, particularly concerning the potential declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Gusau argued that such issues fall under the jurisdiction of key national stakeholders, including the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle.
ZYCC expressed astonishment at what it described as Magayaki’s audacity to comment on critical national issues, given his alleged lack of political credentials.
“It is indeed astonishing and unbecoming for someone with little political pedigree to wade into matters of national importance and make unguarded statements about distinguished figures like His Excellency, the current Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle,” Gusau stated.
The group further claimed that Minister Matawalle possesses far greater political acumen than Governor Dauda Lawal, whom they accused of single-handedly imposing Magayaki as the PDP chairman in Zamfara State.
ZYCC also criticised the PDP-led Zamfara State government for allegedly violating constitutional provisions and engaging in political suppression.
They cited the recent suspension of ten state lawmakers, including both PDP and APC members, accusing the administration of silencing opposition voices.
The group highlighted the suspension of legislators such as:Bakura Constituency: Hon. T. Tukur (APC),Talata Mafara North: Hon. Shamsu Hassan Basko (APC),Maradun 1: Hon. Faruku Musa Dosara (APC),
Tsafe West: Hon. Amiru Ahmad Keta (PDP),Bungudu West: Hon. Bashir Sarkin Zango (PDP),Gummi 1: Hon. Bashir Aliyu (PDP),Bukkuyum North: Hon. Barr. Bashir Abubakar (PDP)and Maru North: Hon. Nasiru Abdullahi (PDP).
ZYCC accused Governor Lawal of orchestrating these suspensions to consolidate power and weaken political opposition in the state.
The youth group urged Magayaki to focus on addressing internal issues within the Zamfara PDP rather than commenting on national security matters beyond his jurisdiction.
“The whole world is aware of the emasculation of Nigeria’s constitution being carried out by your master and the poor advice you provide as a party stalwart,” Gusau alleged.
ZYCC further criticised the influence of political allies from other states, accusing them of depleting Zamfara’s resources while undermining the authority of the state legislature.
The group warned that it is closely monitoring the actions of the state government and PDP leadership.
The group also expressed concern over what they see as the misuse of power, constitutional violations, and suppression of opposition voices.