The North-Central Writers Advocacy Group (NCWAG) has strongly condemned reports alleging that the Zamfara State Government, under Governor Dauda Lawal, secretly ordered the release of hundreds of convicted terrorists and bandits from state correctional facilities.
In a statement signed by its representative, Irimiya Dunat, the group expressed deep shock and alarm, describing the alleged action as a grave violation of public trust and one of the most troubling national security breaches in recent times.
According to media reports cited by NCWAG, a total of 291 convicted Boko Haram members and 219 convicted armed bandits were allegedly freed.
The group noted that the individuals were not awaiting trial but had already been found guilty of terrorism, kidnapping, mass violence, and large-scale community destruction.
NCWAG warned that the alleged unilateral decision comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with intensifying security threats, from expanding banditry across the North to emerging criminal cells in the South-East.
They stressed that releasing convicted violent offenders without federal authorization or public oversight sets a dangerous precedent and undermines national stability.
The group has therefore called for immediate intervention by the Presidency, the National Security Council, and other relevant federal security agencies.
They demanded a prompt investigation and a comprehensive public security briefing to clarify the circumstances surrounding the alleged releases.
NCWAG also issued a seven-day ultimatum to Governor Dauda Lawal to provide a full public explanation detailing the legal basis, security protocols, and rationale behind the purported action.
The group urged vigilance nationwide, warning that Nigeria cannot afford a system where any state executive can unilaterally release individuals responsible for mass atrocities.
