An atmosphere of tension unfolded on Wednesday in Dansadau town, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, as aggrieved residents reportedly descended on a serving member of the State House of Assembly over allegations of abandonment and poor representation.
The lawmaker, Kabiru Mikailu, who represents Maru South Constituency, was said to have been attacked by youths and other residents when he arrived in the community alongside Governor Dauda Lawal during an official visit. The visit marked what many described as a rare high-level government presence in the troubled town.
According to accounts from residents, the anger directed at the legislator stemmed from long-standing grievances over what they described as his absence from the constituency since his election. Many accused him of failing to maintain contact with the people or address their concerns, particularly amid persistent security challenges affecting the area.
Some residents alleged that Mikailu had not returned to Dansadau for key community moments, including Sallah celebrations, nor had he visited families affected by repeated bandit attacks to offer condolences or support. These perceived lapses, they said, fueled frustration that boiled over during the governor’s visit.
Security operatives attached to the governor’s convoy were reported to have stepped in swiftly to de-escalate the situation and prevent the confrontation from spiraling further out of control.
Governor Dauda Lawal was in Dansadau to officially flag off the reconstruction of the more than 90-kilometre Dansadau–Gusau road, a critical route expected to improve access, security and economic activities in the region. During the same visit, the governor also approved the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the town’s General Hospital, alongside plans to provide solar-powered electricity to ease the long-standing power challenges faced by residents.
Addressing the community, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to tackle insecurity, rebuild damaged infrastructure and improve the welfare of residents in areas worst hit by banditry and neglect across Zamfara State.
In a symbolic moment during the visit, Governor Lawal was honoured with the traditional title of Garkuwan Dansadau. He was subsequently turbaned by the Emir of Dansadau, Alhaji Garba Muhammad, Sarkin Kudu Dansadau, in recognition of the projects and assurances extended to the community.
What you should know
Dansadau has been one of the communities heavily affected by insecurity in Zamfara State, with repeated bandit attacks disrupting daily life and development.
Tensions between elected representatives and constituents have grown in several rural areas where residents feel disconnected from those elected to represent them.
The incident reflects broader frustrations over governance, representation and security, even as the state government pushes forward with infrastructure projects and reconstruction efforts.
