Security Before Politics: Ex-DSS Chief Declares Katsina Governorship Bid

Security Before Politics: Ex-DSS Chief Declares Katsina Governorship Bid

Former Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Alhaji Lawal Daura, has said his decision to join partisan politics is driven by a desire to save lives and tackle insecurity, declaring that Nigeria’s security crisis requires leaders with deep operational experience rather than rhetoric.

Daura made the statement while addressing supporters and alumni of the Government College Funtua Old Boys Association (FOBA) in Funtua, Katsina State, where he reaffirmed his ambition to contest the 2027 Katsina State governorship election on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

According to the former intelligence chief, insecurity remains the biggest obstacle to development, not only in Katsina but across Nigeria. He argued that without restoring safety, efforts in education, healthcare, agriculture and economic growth would remain ineffective. “If people are not safe, nothing else works. That is why I joined politics — to help save lives,” he said.

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Daura, who led the DSS during some of Nigeria’s most challenging security years, described himself as a “politics mechanic,” explaining that his role is to fix a broken system using experience gained from decades in intelligence, crisis management and national security coordination. He noted that banditry, kidnapping and violent crimes ravaging parts of north-west Nigeria demand practical solutions backed by intelligence-led policing and community engagement.

His declaration comes amid growing public concern over the worsening security situation in several parts of the country. Recent reports have highlighted renewed attacks by bandits in the North-West and deadly communal clashes in parts of the North-Central region, reinforcing calls for leaders with proven security backgrounds to take up governance roles.

Speaking at the event, FOBA leaders and supporters expressed confidence in Daura’s capacity to address insecurity if elected. FOBA Chairman, Dr Aliyu Yahaya, said the former DSS boss possesses the experience and discipline required to restore peace, adding that alumni members would mobilise support for his ambition within their communities.

Political observers note that Daura’s entry into the race adds a new dimension to Katsina’s 2027 contest, as debates increasingly shift toward security-focused leadership. Analysts say his candidacy reflects a broader trend of former security chiefs seeking elective office, arguing that Nigeria’s challenges now demand hands-on expertise rather than career politicians.

As preparations for the next election cycle gather momentum, Daura insists his mission is not personal ambition but public service. “Politics should be about protecting lives and giving people peace,” he said, positioning his campaign as a continuation of his long career in national service.

Security Before Politics: Ex-DSS Chief Declares Katsina Governorship Bid