A Zamfara-based civic group, Zamfara Concerns Citizen, has publicly condemned Governor Dauda Lawal for what it describes as excessive spending on travel expenses, in three months,which, it claims, fails to benefit the people of Zamfara.
The group revealed in a statement that over 2 billion naira had allegedly been spent by the Governor’s administration on travel costs in three months.
Speaking on behalf of the group on Saturday, Convener Musa Muhammed expressed disappointment and dismay at what he called “unnecessary and extravagant spending” by the Governor’s office.
“We are shocked and deeply disappointed by recent reports revealing that Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration has spent over 2 billion naira on travel expenses alone,” Muhammed stated.
Muhammed further argued that the expenditure is in stark contrast to the financial hardships faced by civil servants, pensioners, and residents across the state.
He highlighted that while civil servants are struggling with daily expenses and retirees have been left unpaid, the Governor’s office appears to prioritize luxury over the well-being of Zamfara’s citizens.
“The civil servants in Zamfara often can’t even afford two square meals a day,” Muhammed continued. “Meanwhile, our pensioners, who dedicated their lives to serving Zamfara State, go unpaid. The Governor’s office, however, seems more focused on lavish travel expenses.”
According to Muhammed, the spending is unjustifiable given the economic challenges that Zamfara faces. He cited issues like poverty, insecurity, and lack of essential services as urgent problems that need the government’s attention and resources.
“This is particularly disturbing considering the vulnerable state of our communities and their urgent need for support,” he said.
The group has called on Governor Lawal to provide an explanation for the substantial travel expenses and to outline how they serve the interests of the Zamfara people.
Muhammed stressed that the people deserve transparency and accountability, particularly in light of the challenges faced by the state.
“Zamfara State is facing mounting issues,” Muhammed added. “From poverty to insecurity, the people expect their elected leaders to focus on real, measurable development that impacts their lives directly, not on excessive travel bills.”
The group’s statement went on to demand that Governor Lawal prioritize the payment of salaries and pensions, as well as the implementation of programs aimed at alleviating the suffering of Zamfara’s residents. Muhammed argued that these actions should take precedence over non-essential expenditures.
“True leadership means putting the needs of the people first, not personal luxury,” Muhammed stated. “We urge the Governor to reassess his priorities and take decisive steps to support the people of Zamfara.”