A member of the Nigerian House of Representatives narrowly escaped death after being beaten and attacked by angry constituents in Zamfara State, following allegations of poor performance and neglect of his constituency.
What Happened
The incident occurred on Tuesday in Dansadau town, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, when residents reportedly confronted the federal lawmaker during a visit to the area. Eyewitnesses said the confrontation quickly escalated, with the lawmaker being slapped, beaten, and dragged by an enraged mob.Videos circulating on social media showed the visibly distressed lawmaker being assaulted as residents shouted accusations of betrayal and abandonment. He was eventually rescued by security operatives, who whisked him away in a vehicle to prevent further harm.
Reason for the Attack
The angry residents accused the lawmaker of poor representation, claiming he had failed to:Initiate or attract meaningful development projectsAddress persistent insecurity and banditry in the areaEmpower youths or support local livelihoodsMaintain regular engagement with constituentsAccording to locals, frustration has been building over time due to worsening security conditions, poverty, and what they described as a lack of visible federal presence in the constituency.
Identity of the Lawmaker
While initial reports did not immediately confirm the identity of the assaulted lawmaker, multiple local sources later identified him as Abdulmalik Zubairu, who represents the Bungudu/Maru Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Official Reaction
As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been released by the Nigeria Police Force or the House of Representatives regarding the incident. The condition of the lawmaker after the attack has also not been formally disclosed.
Growing Public Anger
The attack highlights the growing anger and desperation among citizens, particularly in areas affected by insecurity and underdevelopment. Analysts warn that such incidents may become more frequent if gaps between elected officials and their constituents continue to widen.The situation in Zamfara State remains tense, as residents continue to demand accountability, improved security, and tangible development from their elected representatives.