A group known as Neutral Minds for Nigeria’s Political Growth and Development (NMNPGD) has called for the arrest of Sani Shinkafi, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, for allegedly defying the Zamfara State government’s ban on political gatherings.
The ban was imposed by Governor Dauda Lawal in February 2025, following a security breach in the Maru Local Government Area. The directive prohibited all political activities in the state to curb escalating insecurity.
However, Shinkafi allegedly inaugurated his political movement, Wamban Shinkafi Democratic Fronts, at his Gusau residence, despite the ban. The group’s National Coordinator, Obed Bawa, accused Shinkafi of defying the state government’s order and heightening tension in Zamfara.
Shinkafi denied violating any executive order, stating that there was no white paper stopping political gatherings in Zamfara State. He claimed that the gathering was not under the auspices of a political party but rather his organization’s meeting, which was held within his residence.
The group also accused Shinkafi of making statements against the APC Zamfara State chapter and President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which could cause instability. Shinkafi declared his intention to run for the governorship of Zamfara State in 2027 under the APC platform, which the group claimed may cause political tension in the state.
Shinkafi also criticized President Tinubu over lopsided appointments, stating that Zamfara State was neglected despite its significant contribution to the APC’s victory in the 2023 general election.
The group emphasized the need for the government to enforce its directives and arrest defaulters to maintain peace and stability in Zamfara.