Pathways to lasting peace in Zamfara State

Today I yielded my column to Mohammed Abubakar Mayanchi, whose article on the insecurity in Zamfara State I find topical and compelling enough to share with Nigerians. He writes from a deep perspective of one who comes from the areas where these unfortunate events are taking place. In this article below he not only traces the origin of the crises, but also provides strategies which could be used as template for resolving the issue in Zamfara  and other states. Read on:

Introduction

Zamfara State has, for several years, grappled with complex security challenges that have disrupted social and economic life. These challenges stem from a combination of communal conflicts, criminal activities, and a prolonged breakdown of law and order. This article highlights the major security issues confronting the state and proposes practical, holistic solutions for long-term stability.

One of the earliest and most persistent crisis in Zamfara State is the violent confrontations between Fulani rural communities and local vigilante groups (yan sa kai).

The conflict can be traced to the surge in cattle rustling around 2009. The problem of cattle theft led some communities to form vigilante groups (‘yan sa kai or ‘yan banga) to fight cattle rustlers.

However, allegations soon arose that the vigilantes were taking the law into their own hands and committing abuses. Fulani youths living in rural areas also began forming their own groups to fight against the vigilantes. This mutual hostility escalated into violent clashes, leading to widespread insecurity that other criminals (petty thieves, major criminals living within towns across the state, and other armed robbers who had been terrorising communities even before this conflict) are exploiting.

Both sides (the rural Fulani and the vigilantes) inflicted severe harm on each other. This harm affected all rural dwellers, especially the Fulani and Hausa residents of rural communities. Neither side feels safe whenever they see the other for fear of retaliation or revenge. Most scholars advocating dialogue are referring specifically to these two key actors.

Proposed solutions

A structured peace process involving respected Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, community leaders, and Fulani elders should be established to facilitate dialogue and rebuild trust.

Both vigilantes (Y’an sa kai) and Fulani fighters should be enrolled in deradicalisation initiatives aimed at reshaping their mindset while also providing them with occupations, skills, and education.

Before the widespread use of mobile phones and online banking systems, highway armed robbery was a major threat in Zamfara State. Criminals frequently ambushed road users, especially at night, to steal large sums of cash.

With improved financial technology reducing cash transactions, many of these criminals shifted their operations from robbery to kidnapping for ransom. For instance, all the known danger spots for armed robbery in the 90s and early 2000s (such as Dogon Kafen Maru, Kwaren Kirya around Mayanchi, CDC near Gada Biyu Mayanchi, and Dogon Awo along Sokoto Road) are now notorious places for kidnapping. This group exploits the ongoing Fulani–vigilante conflict to its benefit, by engaging in kidnapping on highways, schools, and farms, thereby sabotaging peace efforts and prolonging the crisis.

Proposed solutions

A specialised, well-equipped security force dedicated to forest surveillance is essential. These Forest Guards should use modern tools to identify criminal hideouts, dismantle their networks, and prevent them from regrouping.

Unlike the Fulani–vigilante conflict, kidnapping gangs require decisive, intelligence-driven security responses.

Conflict between rural Fulani communities and vigilante groups has also led to a breakdown in law enforcement capacity in towns. Before the rural conflicts, many towns in Zamfara harboured petty and hardened criminals who engaged in phone snatching, burglary, drug distribution, and activities related to area boys/Y’an Daba. These criminals now exploit the weakened security environment. They engage in theft, drug-related offenses, and other community-level crimes, further straining public safety.”

Proposed solutions

A community-focused security outfit should be established to patrol towns, deter criminal activity, and restore law and order at the local level.

Programmes that teach vocational skills (such as tailoring, welding, ICT, agriculture, auto-mechanics, etc.), provide start-up support, and offer scholarships to young people can reduce idleness and unemployment—two major drivers of crime.

Conclusion

The security crisis in Zamfara State is multifaceted, requiring equally comprehensive solutions. True and lasting peace demands a balanced combination of community reconciliation, targeted security interventions, and social development initiatives.

May the Almighty Allah ease our burdens and grant wisdom to our leaders as they work toward restoring security and stability in Zamfara State.

Abubakar Mohammad Mayanchi can be reached through [email protected]

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