Authorities in Zamfara State have confirmed the presence of armed groups who have been engaging bandits and preaching to them against killing innocent people.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, the Waziri of Dansadau emirate, Alhaji Mustapha Umar, said the people of Dansadau and Dandalla have been living in fear since the appearance of the armed preachers in their areas.
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He said the armed men appeared in Dandalla community, which is about 10km away from Dansadau, last week.
According to him, “”These armed men have delivered Friday sermon, held preaching sessions and led prayers in Dandalla community.”
Alhaji Mustapha Umar added that the men were dressed in white gowns and it appeared even the bandits are afraid of them.
“From what the people say, then gunmen may be members of Boko Haram because of the small flags on their motorcycles which bore Arabic inscriptions of the Shahada. Similar inscriptionscan also be found on their clothes,” he said.
The traditional ruler said “No doubt the people are preaching to the bandits to stop attacking those living close to them in villages. They make it clear to the bandits that they must live in peace with the people.”
He said this is the second time they are coming in the last one year, that is why the bandits fear them. “They preach to them using verses from the Holy Quran on why they (the bandits) must not hurt innocent people. If they have any grievances, they should channel it to the government.”
Alhaji Mustapha Umar said they have notified the relevant authorities about the presence of the armed group, adding that “If the message did not get to the governor, I hope this time around he will get to hear it.”
