The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has issued a statement calling for the federal government to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State. The organization, which represents Yoruba youth across Nigeria, expressed concern over what they described as “deepening political crisis” and “worsening security situation” that has engulfed the state for months.
In their press release, the YYC highlighted the ongoing power struggle between two factions of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, each claiming legitimacy. According to the statement, one faction led by Speaker Bashar Aliyu Gummi has issued an ultimatum to Governor Dauda Lawal, threatening impeachment over allegations of inadequate security response, economic hardship, and the dismissal of civil servants. The opposing faction, led by Speaker Bilyaminu Moriki, has dismissed these actions as “illegal” and “unrecognized.”
The youth organization emphasized the deteriorating security conditions in Zamfara, citing reports that at least 41 people have been killed and over 185 abducted in the past five months. The statement further noted that communities throughout the state are being extorted by “gun-wielding bandits” under threat of violence.
The YYC concluded their statement by urging immediate federal intervention through a declaration of emergency powers to prevent further deterioration of conditions and “restore normalcy” to the state. The press release was signed by Comrade Eric Oluwole, identified as the National Coordinator of the Yoruba Youth Council.