Amanze Chinonye
In a dramatic turn of events, residents of Dansadau town in Maru Local Government Area physically confronted Hon. Kabiru Mikailu, APC member of the Zamfara State House of Assembly representing Maru South Constituency, on Tuesday.
According to Prime Business Africa, the assault stemmed from mounting frustrations over Mikailu’s alleged neglect and failure to adequately represent his constituents.
The confrontation unfolded during a historic visit by Governor Dauda Lawal, reportedly the first by a sitting governor to the security-challenged town in over two decades. Eyewitnesses and video footage circulating online show Mikailu being slapped, shoved, and manhandled by an angry crowd as soon as he appeared.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelResidents expressed their grievances openly, accusing him of abandoning the community: “He never comes here not during Sallah, not when bandit attacks hit us. We only see him on television,” one local lamented.
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The violent encounter was fueled by long-standing frustration over recurrent banditry, displacement, and the lawmaker’s perceived lack of engagement with constituents. Security personnel attached to the governor’s convoy intervened promptly, protecting Mikailu and preventing further escalation. Reports indicate no serious injuries or arrests so far.
Despite the unrest, Governor Lawal pressed on with his official duties, drawing large crowds of residents eager to witness the administration’s interventions. The governor flagged off the reconstruction of the 90-kilometre Dansadau–Gusau road, a major infrastructure project aimed at boosting regional connectivity and economic activities. He also ordered immediate renovations at Dansadau General Hospital and the installation of solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety and living conditions in the town.
Governor Lawal reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Dansadau, stating: “We are determined to restore security, rebuild essential infrastructure, and ensure that every community feels the tangible benefits of governance.”
In recognition of his efforts, the Emir of Dansadau, Alhaji Garba Muhammad (Sarkin Kudu Dansadau), conferred the traditional title of Garkuwan Dansadau (Protector of Dansadau) on the governor during a turbaning ceremony, marking a symbolic endorsement of the administration’s developmental agenda.
Dansadau has endured years of insecurity, displacement, and infrastructural neglect, contributing to residents’ sharp criticism of their elected representative. The incident underscores the growing demand for accountability and active constituency engagement among elected officials in Nigeria.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
