Insecurity: LG autonomy will address security challenges in Zamfara – Jaji

A federal lawmaker representing Birnin Magaji/Kaura Namoda Federal Constituency in Zamfara State, Hon Aminu Sani Jaji, has assured that the teething security challenges in Zamfara and other parts of the country will be addressed with local government autonomy.

He said that the main cause of the ravaging security challenges is that most of the youths in the country have no means of livelihood, noting that an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.

Hon. Jaji further stated that the teeming unproductive population lacks education and skills, stressing that this remains the root of banditry and other forms of criminality.

He disclosed this during a public lecture and interactive session organized by the Zamfara State Students Association (ZAMSSA), Ahmadu Bello University chapter, on Saturday, where he was the guest speaker.

The federal lawmaker stressed the need for governments at all levels to pay more attention to policies promoting education as a means to address insecurity in Zamfara State and Nigeria in general.

Hon. Jaji further stated that it is an unfortunate system where governments at all levels could unregrettably handle the issue by providing education and skills to the teeming illiterate youths.

He expressed that it is total ignorance on the part of the governments regarding the reality of the causes of security challenges faced by almost all communities in Nigeria.

“Although local government autonomy would no doubt help to reduce the threatening rate of banditry and other forms of criminal activities, as well as cattle rustling, farmers/herders clashes, and communal clashes,” he said.

The lawmaker further commended the granting of local government autonomy as it is the closest tier of government to the people and holds the key to unlocking grassroots development, economic growth, and improved service delivery.

“In a nutshell, local government autonomy refers to the freedom of local governments to manage their affairs, make decisions, and allocate resources without undue interference from higher tiers of government.

“It is about empowering local communities to take ownership of their development, harness local resources, and address unique local needs.

“As we explore the importance of local government autonomy, we should consider its benefits, challenges, and successes.

“We will examine how autonomy can unlock economic growth and development, improve service delivery, and address local security and conflict resolution.”