NDC criticizes Zamfara governor for Ethiopia trip after attack

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Zamfara State has slammed Governor Dauda Lawal for going to Ethiopia after a deadly attack in Bindin, Maru Local Government Area.

Reports say that 12 soldiers and five artisanal miners were killed, but the military has not confirmed these numbers.

The violence reportedly started on Monday, but there are different accounts on whether the attack on the military happened that day or on Tuesday.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Murtala Gusau, the NDC accused Mr Lawal of abandoning the state while residents in the affected community mourned.

The governor left Nigeria on Tuesday as part of a federal government team led by Vice President Kashim Shettima to Addis Ababa for the Nigeria-Ethiopia Nutrition Leadership Exchange from 7 to 9 October.

Reacting to the attack, the NDC sent condolences to the families of the security personnel and civilians who were reportedly killed.

The statement, issued on behalf of its Zamfara State chairman, Surajo Garba Maikatako, criticized Mr Lawal for leaving the country after the attack.

The party said the governor should have stayed in Zamfara to support the affected community.

"Leadership is defined by presence and empathy in times of crisis," the party stated.

The NDC reminded Mr Lawal of his campaign promise to fight banditry in Zamfara, saying his administration has failed to stop the security problems.

The party urged the governor to return to Zamfara and speak with residents about the attack.

It also criticized the federal government for including the governor in the Nigerian delegation to Ethiopia and called for justice for those behind the Bindin attack.

"The people of Zamfara deserve a leader who prioritises their safety and well-being above all else," the party stated.

The NDC accused the federal government of being insensitive for allowing the governor to go on the trip while his state was dealing with the aftermath of the attack.

The party, however, did not provide proof that the federal government approved the delegation after the Bindin attack.