The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, the apex socio-cultural organization of Igbo youths, has urged the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to thoroughly investigate an alleged leaked memo from the Zamfara State Government.
The controversial memo reportedly gave approval to high-profile bandits and influential figures, sparking widespread concern over its implications for national security.
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, appearing on a TVC program, denounced the memo as a forgery. He stated that the document had been analyzed and linked to unnamed individuals, who would face legal consequences for their role in the alleged forgery.
Addressing the media in Abuja, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, emphasized the need for the memo to be thoroughly investigated due to its potential impact on national security. He criticized Governor Lawal for focusing on attacks against the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, rather than addressing the pressing issues in Zamfara.
Okwu expressed disappointment that Governor Lawal, over a year into his tenure, had failed to deliver on governance and accused him of lacking the capacity to lead the state effectively. He remarked, “It is unacceptable that after 16 months in office, the governor has not made any significant progress.”
He further stated, “While we are not deeply involved in Zamfara State politics, our concern lies with the national security implications of the alleged memo. We watched the governor’s defence on TV, and it is clear that ONSA should investigate this matter critically.”
Okwu went on to label Governor Lawal as the “complainant of the year” for spending his tenure criticizing his predecessor instead of delivering on his electoral promises. “If the governor has shown a lack of capacity, it would be honourable for him to step aside and allow a more competent leader to take charge,” he added.
The Ohanaeze youth leader also commended the Nigerian Army for its recent successes in the fight against banditry and terrorism, attributing these achievements to the renewed efforts of the National Security Adviser, Service Chiefs, and Defence Chiefs. Okwu urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain cautious of those attempting to undermine the progress made in securing the country.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and action in the fight against insecurity, encouraging the government to take all necessary steps to ensure the protection of citizens.
