Say what you can defend or go to jail zamfara governor tells opposition

The infamous statement!

On November 12, 2020, the Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, made a controversial statement that sparked widespread outrage and condemnation. He said:

"If you can't defend yourself, you will go to jail. If you can't defend yourself, you will go to jail. If you can't defend yourself, you will go to jail."

The statement was directed at opposition politicians in the state, implying that they would face arrest and imprisonment if they couldn't defend themselves against perceived attacks or criticisms.

The Governor's statement was widely criticized as an attempt to intimidate and silence opposition voices in the state. Many saw it as a threat to freedom of speech and a violation of human rights.

The statement also sparked concerns about the Governor's commitment to democratic values and the rule of law. It was seen as a move to undermine the opposition and consolidate power, rather than engaging in constructive dialogue and debate.

The Zamfara State chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and other civil society organizations condemned the statement, calling it an attempt to stifle dissent and undermine the democratic process.

The Governor's statement has been widely criticized on social media, with many calling for him to retract it and apologize for the harm caused.