Security Agencies Proposed Shutdown Of Mobile Network in Zamfara, Says FG

The Federal government has said the shutting down of telecommunications network in Zamfara was a security agencies' call.

The shutdown of the networks was a security measure to aid fight against banditry.

This was disclosed by the minister of communications and digital economy, Isa Ali Pantami, on Wednesday at the state house Abuja.

Pantami said the origin of the idea was not his ministry but from security agencies. He stated that when security agencies proposed the shutting down of the networks, the federal government did not oppose.

He added that the FG is interested in tackling the security challenges more than economic gains in the telecommunications sector.

He further called on Nigerians to understand the security measures as well as support the security agencies in bringing lasting peace to the affected states.

The minister explained that, “I want to clarify to all of us that the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999, Section 14, Subsection 2, under Article B, has expounded to us that the primary responsibility of government is the security and welfare of its citizens.”

While noting security as the number priority of President Muhammadu Buhari, he said the president is willing to support moves that will help security agencies deliver in their jobs.

He added: “Furthermore, security issues cannot be discussed in public like this. Most importantly, I am not in a better position to justify the shutting down of telecommunications because of security. I am aware of the shutting down, but the request is not from us. Rather, the request is from the security institutions, in which they asked for that as part of their strategy.

“Because of this, the government allowed them to go ahead and even that one, the reason for doing that I may be aware of some, but I’m sorry to say it’s not for public discussion. What I only plead with all of us, as laymen, we shall try to give our security institutions the support they need to deliver on their mandate.

“Security issues today are not only for the security institutions alone, but there is a role that each and every citizen can play in order to make their work more successful. So, I plead with the media to support our security institutions and let us give them the benefit of doubt; when they come up with a strategy, let us not unnecessarily criticise it, except we allow them to begin and see.

“Particularly, they could have information at their disposal that you and I do not have and if you lack information, you will not be able to do justice in your deliberation. It is only when there is sufficient information at your disposal, then you can argue, but if you don’t have it, even if you partake in any debate, you will finally discover that you have made a very wrong decision.

“So, it is because of this. This is originally a request from Zamfara State government, in which they have requested the federal government to support them and Mr. President, as we always know that his priority is security."

The Zamfara state governor had earlier disclosed in an interview with Deutsche Welle radio how the measure had already started yielding results.