A coalition advocating for democracy and development has called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State following the suspension of 10 members of the state House of Assembly.

While condemning the alleged anti-democratic actions of Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, the group urged President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara for a minimum of six months.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, its convener, Ibrahim Yakubu, noted that Governor Lawal’s actions have plunged the state into economic sabotage, anarchy, and instability.

The lawmakers, comprising four members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and six from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), were suspended by the Zamfara State House of Assembly on February 27, 2024, for allegedly holding an illegal plenary.

The coalition argued that suspending the lawmakers for simply expressing concerns about the state’s security situation has crippled the legislative chamber and denied the people of Zamfara effective representation.

The group described this as a clear abuse of power and an attack on democracy.

The coalition said: “In light of these hideous violations, it is time for President Bola Tinubu to take action before it is too late. A state of emergency must be declared in Zamfara now.

“A six-month emergency period is necessary to restore order, dismantle the networks of political and economic terrorists, and pave the way for a return to democratic governance.

“This is not a call made lightly; it is a demand born out of necessity, as the current trajectory threatens not only Zamfara but the entire nation. The good people of Zamfara deserve leadership that upholds the rule of law, prioritizes security, and safeguards national resources.

“Additionally, we implore Mr. President to use every resource and tool at his disposal to handle the crisis in Zamfara.

“The federal government must take swift action to secure the state’s resources, defend people’s lives and livelihoods, and hold those culpable for the current situation accountable. The time for half-measures and false promises is no longer an option; strong, quick action is now required.

“It is evident that Governor Dauda Lawal’s tenure has been an unmitigated disaster, a relentless assault on democracy, a blatant disregard for the rule of law, and a shocking indifference to the suffering of the people he was elected to serve.

“He has desecrated democratic institutions and refused to tackle insecurity. No doubt, he has failed in his responsibilities, and he can no longer remain in office. Nigeria deserves better.”