I Entered Politics to Save Lives, Tackle Katsina Insecurity — Ex-DSS Boss, Lawal Daura

Former Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Lawal Daura, has said his decision to venture into politics is driven by a desire to rescue Katsina State from worsening insecurity and protect lives.

Daura made the remarks on Thursday in Katsina during a reunion organised by the Government College Funtua Old Boys Association (FOBA), Class of 1969.

Describing himself as a “politics mechanic,” Daura said the term reflects the depth of the security crisis confronting the state.

“Whenever you see a mechanic with his instruments, you know there is a problem. Truly, there is a problem in our dear state, and it is affecting all of us,” he said.

He stressed that insecurity remains the root of most of Katsina’s challenges, noting that without solving security problems, other issues would persist.

“People talk about security all the time because it is the key that opens the door to solving other problems. If you don’t get that key, you cannot address anything else,” Daura added.

He recalled that markets that once operated at night now struggle to function even during the day, while farming, the backbone of Katsina and neighbouring states’ economy, has been severely disrupted.

Daura said his political ambition is not driven by power, wealth or position, noting that he had already held offices higher than that of a governor.

“This is not about leadership position. The office I once held was bigger than that of a governor. I have made a name beyond this country. If it was about money, what would I do with money now?” he asked.

He explained that loss of lives, human rights abuses and daily suffering of citizens pushed him into politics.

“You hear these things like tales, but they are real. Abuse of human rights in homes, on the roads, and everywhere. These are the things that attracted me to politics,” he said.

Thanking his former schoolmates, Daura said he was encouraged by their early support.

“With the help of Allah, we will do our best and succeed,” he assured.

Speaking at the event, FOBA Chairman, Alhaji Dr Aliyu Yahaya, said Daura’s security background positions him to tackle Katsina’s insecurity within a short time if elected.

Yahaya pledged that members of the association would mobilise massive support for Daura, promising that each member would deliver hundreds of votes for him if he secures a governorship ticket on any party’s platform.

Elijah Adeyemi