INSECURITY: Zamfara State Adopts Colombia’s Strategic Model to Tackle Insurgency and Banditry

In a significant move to address rampant terrorism, insurgency, and banditry, the Zamfara State Government has completed a thorough examination of Colombia’s strategic communication framework, particularly its non-kinetic approaches to conflict resolution. This initiative aims to adapt successful strategies from Colombia to the specific security challenges faced in Zamfara.

A delegation, led by Governor Dauda Lawal, recently returned from an exchange program in Bogotá, Colombia, where they focused on the demobilization strategy employed during the conflict with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The goal of this initiative is to harness lessons learned from Colombia’s experiences to restore economic stability in Zamfara and promote safe, unhindered movement for its citizens.

Governor Lawal emphasized that the Colombian model presents an adaptable framework suitable for addressing multifaceted security threats. It highlighted that relying solely on kinetic military operations is inadequate for achieving enduring peace. Colombian authorities utilized extensive media campaigns that treated communication with as much gravity as military action itself. The integration of radio, television, and localized community messaging effectively built credible alternative pathways for peace, rather than resorting to propaganda.

One cornerstone of Colombia’s success was its use of testimonials from demobilized combatants. These former guerrillas shared their personal journeys tales filled with disillusionment, fear, and a longing for family either anonymously or openly, demonstrating the tangible benefits of embracing peace. Such human narratives struck a deep chord with active combatants contemplating their futures, providing a powerful counter-narrative to abstract governmental messages.

The Colombian strategy was meticulously crafted to deliver targeted messages to diverse audiences. Active fighters were informed about demobilization procedures and available reintegration programs, while families received emotionally resonant appeals concerning separation and reunion. Communities were prepared to accept former combatants, and the general public was engaged with collective narratives that framed peace as a national endeavor.

In regions of rural Colombia, where state presence was minimal, community radio stations broadcasting in local dialects became pivotal for disseminating messages of peace. The Colombian government recognized the importance of amplifying the voices of influential figures such as religious leaders, respected community elders, and former combatants effectively overcoming the trust deficit that often undermines state-led messaging in conflict zones.

Governor Lawal recognizes that while the Colombian model offers valuable insights, it cannot be adopted without modification. The banditry in Zamfara is characterized by diffuse, loosely connected groups with varied motivations, including economic survival, revenge, and criminal enterprise. Consequently, media strategies must be finely tailored to resonate with these distinct segments of the population.

In light of the challenges posed by limited literacy and infrastructural gaps in various parts of Zamfara, the government is considering primary communication channels that are accessible to the community. These might include local FM radio broadcasts, announcements made in mosques, megaphones in markets, and audio messages via WhatsApp. Where trust in the state is lacking, the most effective messengers might be former bandits who have renounced violence, along with revered Islamic scholars, traditional leaders, and respected community elders whose voices carry weight and credibility.

Furthermore, the Colombian experience illustrates the potential of media to counteract recruitment efforts by showcasing positive alternatives. By highlighting successful youth, vocational training programs, and stories of hope, campaigns in Zamfara aim to outshine the narratives portrayed by armed groups. Such initiatives must confront the allure of banditry by honestly portraying the fear, trauma, and ultimately tragic outcomes associated with a life of violence.

As Governor Lawal aptly stated, “The Colombian strategy reveals that communication is not merely soft power; it is a crucial component of hard strategy. A bullet can end a fighter’s life; a well-crafted message can create a pathway to peace for countless individuals.”

In our ongoing battle against banditry, media campaigns represent a means to connect with those who cannot be reached through force alone individuals caught in conflict, those coerced into violence, and disillusioned youth who joined armed groups not out of conviction but circumstance.

The Zamfara Government is committed to adapting these valuable lessons into local languages and cultural contexts, with the intent of protecting its citizens and fostering long-lasting peace throughout the state.

*New Electoral Act Or Self-Coronation in Disguise?*

By Gbenga Shaba 

Nigeria’s democracy has taken a dramatic turn with the signing of a new Electoral Act by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following its passage by the National Assembly. At the heart of this new law is the complete removal of the delegate system, otherwise known as indirect primaries, as a method for political parties to choose their candidates. For decades, party delegates played a decisive role in determining who emerged as flag bearers. That era has now been brought to an abrupt end.

Under the new legal framework, political parties are left with only two recognised options for selecting candidates. The first is direct primaries, where every registered party member is entitled to vote in choosing the party’s candidate. The second is consensus, an internal agreement process in which aspirants voluntarily step down to allow a single candidate to emerge. By abolishing indirect primaries, the law eliminates the traditional system where a small group of selected delegates decides the fate of aspirants.

Supporters of the reform argue that this marks a shift toward internal democracy. The principle of one member, one vote gives broader participation to party faithful and reduces the influence of powerful blocs that once controlled delegate lists. In theory, it expands political power beyond a privileged few and places it directly in the hands of grassroots members. For many ordinary party members who previously had no voice during primaries, this could represent a significant opportunity.

However, critics see deeper political implications. They warn that while direct primaries appear more democratic on paper, the process could be easily influenced by those who control party registers and structures at the national level. Concerns are also being raised about the practicality, cost, and transparency of conducting nationwide direct primaries across all political parties. Without strong safeguards, the promise of wider participation may not necessarily translate into fairer outcomes.

Ultimately, the removal of delegates from party primaries represents a fundamental restructuring of Nigeria’s internal party politics. Whether this reform strengthens democracy or consolidates power will depend on how faithfully it is implemented. What is certain is that the landscape of political competition has changed, and Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether this new law deepens democratic inclusion or reshapes control in a different form.

Senate Backs FCC, Says Underfunding Weakens Constitutional Mandate

The Senate Committee on Federal Character has raised serious concern over the underfunding of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), warning that it is affecting the Commission’s ability to carry out its constitutional responsibilities.

During the 2026 budget defence at the National Assembly, the Executive Chairman of the FCC, Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, presented a proposed budget of ₦6.5 billion and explained that limited funding has reduced the Commission’s capacity to properly monitor and enforce compliance across more than 700 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

She stressed that without adequate funding, the Commission cannot effectively ensure fairness, balance, and equal representation in federal appointments and public service.

“We are appealing to the Senate to support improved funding for the Commission. Federal Character is a constitutional duty, and we must be equipped to enforce it effectively for the good of national unity,” she said.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs, Senator Allwell Heacho, described the funding gap as a serious setback.

“Federal Character is not optional. It is backed by the Constitution. The Commission responsible for enforcing it must be properly funded to deliver,” he stated.

He assured that the Senate Committee is committed to supporting the FCC to strengthen its operations and improve accountability across government institutions.

With support now coming from both the Senate and House Committees, the FCC is set to push for stronger enforcement and better service delivery nationwide