The North-Central Writers Advocacy Group (NCWAG) has demanded an immediate explanation from the Zamfara State Government following reports that 510 convicted terrorists and armed bandits were allegedly released from correctional facilities in the state.
This was revealed in a statement issued by the Convener of the group, Irimiya Dunat.According to the statement, reports circulating across national and online media allege that 291 convicted Boko Haram members and 219 convicted bandits were freed under unclear circumstances.
NCWAG said the development, if confirmed, raises grave national security concerns at a time when insecurity is spreading into new regions of the country.
The statement read: “We are deeply alarmed by the reports alleging that the Zamfara State Government may have authorised the release of 510 convicted terrorists and bandits.
“These individuals, as reported, are not suspects awaiting trial but persons duly convicted for terrorism, mass killings, kidnappings, and the destruction of communities.
“Nigeria deserves to know whether such a grave action was taken and, if so, under what legal or security framework it was executed.”
The group described the alleged release as “one of the most troubling breaches of public trust in recent times,” noting that freeing individuals linked to years of violence in the North-West could further destabilise the country’s already fragile security climate.
The statement continued: “It is difficult to comprehend how convicted terrorists could be considered eligible for release without a clear, public justification.
“The public also deserves to know whether the Federal Government, the judiciary, victims’ families, or security agencies were involved or even notified. Anything short of full disclosure only deepens suspicion and erodes confidence in governance.”
NCWAG demanded that Governor Dauda Lawal provide a full and verifiable explanation within seven days, including the legal basis for the alleged releases and whether the action aligns with national security protocols.
The group also urged the Presidency, the National Security Adviser, the National Security Council, the Ministry of Interior, and the Attorney-General of the Federation to immediately investigate the claims and brief Nigerians on their implications for national safety.
The Zamfara State Government has yet to respond publicly to the allegations.
