Security – Zamfara State Government

Jan 15 2025

ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY: GOVERNOR LAWAL PROMISES ENHANCED WELFARE FOR FAMILIES OF FALLEN HEROES

PRESS STATEMENT

ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY: GOVERNOR LAWAL PROMISES ENHANCED WELFARE FOR FAMILIES OF FALLEN HEROES

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal has restated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the families of brave officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The governor participated in the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration on Wednesday at the trade fair complex in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Dauda Lawal donated ₦20 million to the Zamfara State Chapter of the Nigeria Legion while launching the 2025 remembrance emblem a day before the celebration.

The statement added that the governor inspected a guard of honor mounted by the Armed Forces and members of the Nigerian Legion. “Governor Lawal also led the wreath laying and ordered a one-minute silence in honor of the fallen heroes.”

In his remark, Governor Lawal emphasized that Remembrance Day is a tribute to fallen heroes and a call to action for all the people of Zamfara State and the entire country.

“The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is celebrated nationwide on the 15th day of January every year to commemorate and salute the selfless souls of our veterans who fought gallantly to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, who laid down their lives in sacrifice, so that we may live in peace.

“We appreciate and value their commitment and sacrifice, which have made a difference in our lives today. With gratitude and a sense of duty, we pledged to continue to remember them and support the loved ones they left behind.

“This day is a tribute to our fallen heroes and a call to action for all people of Zamfara State and the entire country. It is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those brave individuals and to reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values and principles they fought and died for. The legacy of our veterans should inspire us to cherish the relative peace that we enjoy today and to strive for a better tomorrow.

“We must not forget the importance of supporting the families of these fallen heroes and the veterans who fought so that we can go to sleep and who still bear the scars of their service to the nation. Their resilience and dedication must remind us of our responsibility to ensure their well-being. By doing so, we honor their sacrifices and demonstrate our gratitude for their unwavering commitment to our nation.”

The governor noted that, despite limited resources, significant progress is being made in addressing the state’s internal security issues through various measures.

“We must remain vigilant against occasional attacks on soft targets. This administration has not only provided logistical support and essential resources. Still, it has also ensured the well-being of families of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. We are committed to covering medical expenses for those injured in security operations and supporting our heroes and their families.

“As part of the efforts of my administration to compressively address the security challenges, we have provided security vehicles equipped with advanced gadgets, along with motorcycles, to the security operatives. This initiative enhances their ability to access difficult terrains to ensure that no part of our state is vulnerable.

“We remain committed to strengthening strategic alliances with neighboring states, security agencies, and other stakeholders to tackle the security challenges affecting our dear state decisively, as collaboration is key to achieving sustainable peace and stability.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS

Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor

January 15, 2025

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Jan 12 2025

INSECURITY: ZAMFARA GOV’T COMMENDS AIRFORCE, COMMISERATES WITH CIVILIAN CASUALTIES

PRESS STATEMENT

INSECURITY: ZAMFARA GOV’T COMMENDS AIRFORCE, COMMISERATES WITH CIVILIAN CASUALTIES

Governor Dauda Lawal has commended the Nigerian military’s efforts in the renewed onslaught against bandits in Zamfara State.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), in a successful airstrike over the weekend, decisively targeted bandits attacking villages in Zurmi and Maradun Local Government Areas.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Gusau, the spokesperson of the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, expressed deep condolences to the families of civilian casualties affected by the airstrike at Tungar Kara in Zurmi LGA.

The statement clarified that the civilian casualties were members of the local vigilante who were mistakenly identified as the bandits fleeing from Gidan Makera in the Boko district of Zurmi LGA.

The statement reads in part: “We have received multiple positive reports of precision strikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansar Yamma over the weekend in troubled Maradun and Zurmi local government areas.

“This intervention by the military has significantly degraded the operational capacity of the bandits and has shown the commitment of the Nigeria Air Force to carrying out its constitutional mandate of protecting civilians and safeguarding the lives and property of the people.

“As a responsible government, we assure all the people of the State that the Government of Zamfara State remains steadfast in its resolve to sustain the gains made in the fight against banditry and related criminalities. The recent success indicates that the collaborative efforts between the state and federal security agencies yield positive results.

“In light of these achievements, the state government reaffirms its commitment to providing all necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to sustain their operations and bring lasting peace to the state.

“We will continue to offer support to enhance intelligence sharing, provide logistics, and strengthen community engagement, all in the spirit of a comprehensive approach to security and achieving the ultimate goal of restoring normalcy across all parts of the state.

“Regrettably, some members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and local vigilantes were also affected during the operation in Tungar Kara, resulting in the loss of lives. We pray to Almighty Allah to grant them Jannah.

“The state government extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen JTF personnel and assures them that the sacrifices of the deceased will not go in vain. The government will provide necessary support and assistance to the bereaved families.

“Finally, the government calls on people to be vigilant, report all suspicious activities, and cooperate fully with security personnel. Through collective effort and unity of purpose, the fight against banditry can be won, bringing enduring peace and stability to Zamfara State.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
January 12, 2025

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Oct 24 2024

DEFENCE MINISTER VISITS ZAMFARA, LAUDS GOV. LAWAL’S COMMITMENT TO FIGHT BANDITRY

PRESS STATEMENT

DEFENCE MINISTER VISITS ZAMFARA, LAUDS GOV. LAWAL’S COMMITMENT TO FIGHT BANDITRY

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has lauded Governor Dauda Lawal’s commitment and continued support to the military operations in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the minister visited the Zamfara Government House and the Joint Taskforce Northwest Operation Fansar Yamma headquarters in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the visit aims to enhance collaboration between the state and the Ministry of Defence.

The statement added that the minister discussed issues of concern as a follow-up to governors Lawal and Radda’s visit to the Defence Ministry earlier this week.

In his remark, Governor Lawal restated his government’s willingness to cooperate with all security agencies to ensure a peaceful Zamfara.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Minister of Defense, who is here today to discuss the security situation in Zamfara.

“Some few days ago, the governor of Katsina state and I were in the minister’s office at the Defence Ministry, where we discussed pressing issues.

“You can see, after two days, the Minister is here with us. This is commendable and a show of commitment from the minister’s side.

“Zamfara is facing many security challenges, but as a responsible government, we are all out to seek assistance, synergy, and cooperation. We are committed to providing all assistance to the troops.

“We are taking this fight to the bandits because we won’t continue to remain defensive. What I have seen so far suggests that the banditry issue will become history, God willing.

“I have made commitments to the Minister. In addition, I have procured ten bulletproof buffalo gun trucks for the military. Other logistics are also in place and will be made available to the security forces to aid them in fighting banditry.

“If we could address the banditry challenges in Zamfara, 90% of the problem would be solved.

“I appeal to the troops, especially the military, that we need them. I am confident they have what it takes to finish this fight.

“I am committed, and I am with you. I thank you all, especially the Honourable Minister who creates time to be with us.”

Earlier, The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, said the successes of the ongoing operation against bandits are linked to the continued support of Governor Lawal’s administration.

“We have started to see improvements, thanks to the support of His Excellency, the Governor of Zamfara State.

“He provided accommodation for the command, logistics, long-distance surveillance cameras, vehicles, and fuel. He even supplied the troops with gun trucks. Your Excellency, we thank you.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 24, 2024

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Oct 23 2024

INSECURITY: GOVERNORS LAWAL, RADDA MEET DEFENCE MINISTER, NSA IN ABUJA

PRESS STATEMENT

INSECURITY: GOVERNORS LAWAL, RADDA MEET DEFENCE MINISTER, NSA IN ABUJA

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda held a closed-door meeting with Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

The two strategic meetings took place on Tuesday at the Ministry of Defence and the National Security Adviser’s office.

A statement issued by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the meeting extensively discussed a recommendation from the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) security committee.

The statement added that the group organized a two-day roundtable discussion in Abuja on January 23, 2024, chaired by former Head of State General Abdussalami Abubakar.

“Yesterday, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State and Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State met with defence minister Badaru Abubakar at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.

“The governors deliberated on crucial issues concerning insecurity and explored ways to enhance collaboration between the two states and the Ministry of Defence.

“After the meeting at the Ministry of Defence, both governors and the defence minister went to the office of the National Security Adviser for another meeting on insecurity.

“The meeting at the National Security Adviser’s office adopted the recommendations of the recommendations from the Security Summit hosted by the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG).

“In January this year, the Coalition of Northern Groups organized a two-day roundtable discussion chaired by former head of State General Abdussalami Abubakar, with all the major stakeholders from the northern part of Nigeria in attendance.

“The adoption of the security committee’s recommendations marks a significant milestone in addressing the complex insecurity issues in Northern Nigeria.

“These are part of the strategies and collaborations that the Katsina and Zamfara state governors are using to combat the issue of banditry in their respective states.”

At the meeting, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) was represented by its Board of Trustees Chairman, Nastura Ashiru Shariff; the Chairman of the CNG Security Committee, Alhaji Bashir Yusuf; Alhaji Ibrahim Ahmed Katsina; General Sarkin Yaki Bello, Ambassador Buhari Bala and General Sa’ad Abubakar.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
October 23, 2024

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Jul 30 2024

WE MUST WORK TOGETHER TO RESCUE AND REBUILD ZAMFARA, GOV. LAWAL TELLS RELIGIOUS LEADERS

PRESS STATEMENT

WE MUST WORK TOGETHER TO RESCUE AND REBUILD ZAMFARA, GOV. LAWAL TELLS RELIGIOUS LEADERS

Governor Dauda Lawal has urged the Zamfara State Council of Ulama to collaborate with his administration to rescue and rebuild the state.

The governor made the call during the inauguration of the Zamfara State Ulama Consultative Council, which took place on Tuesday at the council chambers in the government house, Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, emphasized the Council’s crucial advisory role in influencing government decisions to align with religious principles.

He added that over the past 21 years, the Ulama Council has made invaluable contributions to the state and society in Zamfara, demonstrating its significant influence on government decisions.

While delivering his remark, Governor Lawal assured the Ulama Consultative Forum that his doors are always open to receive the council’s invaluable advice on matters of state policy and the general well-being of the people.

“As we gather here today, I am filled with profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting us the opportunity to inaugurate the newly reconstituted Council of Ulama.

“This Council, also known as the Ulama Consultative Council, was established in 2003 as a critical institution in the government’s drive to strengthen Sharia implementation in Zamfara State. The Council comprises eminent Islamic scholars and guides our society’s moral, spiritual, and economic development.

“The Council’s enactment law, which is Law Number 6 of 2003, has made elaborate provisions, among other things, on the functions of the Council.

“Some of these are screening, recommending, and advising on the qualifications, competence, and fitness of a person to be appointed as Sharia court Alkali.

“Issuing responses to questions (fatwas) or issues in Islamic jurisprudence.

“Receiving research findings relating to new developments emanating from technological advancement and other contemporary issues.

“Advising the Governor on the conformity or otherwise with the principles of Sharia in respect of any bill for a Law.

Furthermore, the governor charged the religious leaders to continue fulfilling their responsibilities with passion, commitment, and due diligence after the reconstitution and inauguration of the Council.

“You are all esteemed Islamic scholars that society looks up to for moral and spiritual guidance. You should not rest on your laurels in carrying out your responsibilities as members of the Council of Ulama and as the pillars of society.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 30, 2024

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Jul 11 2024

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER RESTRICTING MOVEMENT OF MOTORCYCLES IN ZAMFARA

PRESS STATEMENT

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER RESTRICTING MOVEMENT OF MOTORCYCLES IN ZAMFARA

Governor Dauda Lawal has approved an Executive Order to restrict the movement of motorcycles in Zamfara State.

On Thursday, the governor signed the Executive Order at the Government House in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the Security Council decided to restrict motorcycle movement in Zamfara during an emergency meeting on Wednesday.

According to him, to legally enforce the restriction, the state’s Attorney General, Abdul’aziz Sani SAN, presented Executive Order No. 07, 2024 to the governor and subsequently assented.

“Today, Governor Dauda Lawal signed an order to restrict and prohibit the movement of motorcycles from 8:00 pm to 6:00 am in Zamfara State.

“This is in an effort to protect the lives and property of the people, as well as to curb security challenges and broaden the scope of government measures to strengthen the fight against banditry and other forms of social vices in the state.

“Effective immediately, all motorcycles are now restricted within the state between 08:00pm and 06:00am.

“No motorcycles are allowed to travel on any road in the state during these hours. Security agencies are instructed to arrest anyone who violates this order.

“The Attorney General of Zamfara State is authorized to prosecute those who disobey the restriction order.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
July 11, 2024

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Jun 15 2024

GOV. LAWAL DECORATES 20 GALLANTS ZAMFARA COMMUNITY PROTECTION GUARDS, PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. LAWAL DECORATES 20 GALLANTS ZAMFARA COMMUNITY PROTECTION GUARDS, PLEDGES FULL SUPPORT

Governor Dauda Lawal has promised to fully support the families of the Zamfara Community Protection Guards (CPG) members who lost their lives in the fight against banditry.

Twenty Community Protection Guards (CPG) were honoured with gallantry medals for their exceptional performance on Thursday at the government house in Gusau.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that the decorated guards performed exceptionally well.

According to the statement, the decorated guards were led by Brig. General Lawal Bature Mohammed, the state commandant of the Community Protection Guards.

“On Thursday, Governor Dauda Lawal decorated 20 Community Protection Guards (CPGs) who performed extraordinarily well in discharging their duties. All 20 guards were at the frontline fighting bandits to ensure the return of peace in Zamfara State.”

During his speech, Governor Dauda Lawal reiterated his administration’s dedication to the welfare of the guards and pledged full support for the families of those who lost their lives.

“Consider decorating you as a way to motivate you to do more in this significant sacrifice that you are undertaking.

“We can’t compensate you for your service to the state and humanity; all we can do is encourage and motivate you for your gallantry.

“I want to reassure you that we have a plan in place for the families of CPG members who lost their lives in the line of duty. We will take care of all their needs and provide them with all the necessary support.”

Earlier, Brig. Gen. Lawal Bature Mohammed, the Commandant of the Community Protection Guards, said that the 20 guards were selected from various local government areas of the state based on their performances.

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
June 15, 2024

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May 23 2024

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PRESIDES OVER SECURITY COUNCIL MEETING, VOWS INCREASED SUPPORT FOR TROOPS

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV. DAUDA LAWAL PRESIDES OVER SECURITY COUNCIL MEETING, VOWS INCREASED SUPPORT FOR TROOPS

Governor Dauda Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing more support for troops fighting banditry in Zamfara.

On Thursday, the governor presided over the Zamfara State Security Council meeting at the Government House in Gusau, the state capital.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the meeting discussed the state’s security situation and the ongoing large-scale onslaught against bandits.

According to him, the meeting was attended by all heads of the state’s security agencies, including the military, police, DSS, and others.

While addressing the heads of the security agencies, Governor Lawal commended the troops for the successes recorded so far in the fight against banditry.

“Today’s meeting will evaluate the state’s security situation, assess our progress, and pinpoint areas requiring intensified efforts to enhance the security of our people’s lives and property.

“As I have always emphasized to the security council, the priority of my administration is the security of lives and properties. Therefore, we are always prepared to provide all the necessary support to various security agencies in the state to help them carry out their duties diligently and effectively.

“I want to thank the federal government and the military for deploying additional troops to Zamfara. This strategic move aims to eliminate all bandits, and we have started seeing results.

“I also commend the successful arrest of a group of kidnappers in Gusau and the rescue of kidnapped victims across the state, including in Gusau, Maradun, Kauran Namoda, and other local government areas. These achievements are a testament to the effectiveness of the ongoing military operations in the state.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 23, 2024

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May 15 2024

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL COMMENDS TROOPS OVER RENEWED ONSLAUGHT AGAINST BANDITS, EXPRESSES SYMPATHY FOR AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

PRESS STATEMENT

INSECURITY: GOV. LAWAL COMMENDS TROOPS OVER RENEWED ONSLAUGHT AGAINST BANDITS, EXPRESSES SYMPATHY FOR AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

Governor Dauda Lawal has commended the Joint Task Force for the renewed large-scale onslaught against bandits in Zamfara State.

The military deployed more troops to Zamfara last weekend in its efforts to thwart the operations of bandits in volatile areas of the state.

A statement by the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, described the ongoing military onslaught as a necessary measure to disrupt the criminality of bandits in Zamfara.

The statement sympathizes with communities affected by recent bandit attacks in volatile areas while also assuring full and continued support by the state government to the troops at the frontline.

The statement read in parts: “The ongoing military operation in the volatile areas of Zamfara is highly commendable, especially considering the successes recorded since the start of the onslaught last weekend.

“The operation has resulted in significant successes in Bungudu, Tsafe, Maru, and Zurmi local government areas, leading to the elimination of the bandit kingpin, Abu Dan Dunkwuifa, famous for terrorizing villages in Bungudu and Maru.

“In Magama Mai Rake of Dansadau area in Maru LGA, the troops have successfully neutralized scores of bandits.

“The renewed military onslaught in Nasarawan Burkullu in Bukkuyum LGA resulted in the rescue of many kidnapped victims in Kamaru, Tungar Rogo, and Matsare villages, as well as the recovery of many rustled cows.

“The rumor that over 500 people were kidnapped is false and peddled by individuals who do not want peace to return to Zamfara State. Most of the identified volatile areas in Zamfara are undergoing extensive military operations, yielding positive results.

The governor further expresses sympathy for the communities that were recently attacked by bandits in the state.

“The Zamfara State Government wishes to express sympathy with communities recently attacked by bandits. We are fully committed to ensuring the safety of the lives and properties of the people.

“Our government will continue to support the troops fighting insecurity and extend all necessary emergency support to the victims of banditry in the state.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 15, 2024

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May 2 2024

INSECURITY: ZAMFARA GOVERNOR RECEIVES EIMC PARTICIPANTS, PLEDGES PARTNERSHIP WITH NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR SECURITY STUDIES

PRESS STATEMENT

INSECURITY: ZAMFARA GOVERNOR RECEIVES EIMC PARTICIPANTS, PLEDGES PARTNERSHIP WITH NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR SECURITY STUDIES

Governor Dauda Lawal has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with relevant security agencies, including the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), to tackle insecurity in Zamfara State.

On Wednesday, a team of Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC) 17/2024 participants and faculty officials from the National Institute for Security Studies visited Zamfara State and met with Governor Lawal.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, explained that the course theme is “Artificial Intelligence, Security and Emerging Economies in Africa: Challenges and Prospects,” participants are drawn from various agencies within and outside the country.

The statement added that the composition allows participants to share ideas and brainstorm on critical and diverse issues from different perspectives, resulting in a much richer output.

Addressing the officials and course participants, Governor Lawal commended the institute for choosing Zamfara State for a study tour. “The decision is apt and promising in appreciating some critical variables for proper dissection of the theme. Like other parts of Nigeria, our State is endowed with abundant natural and human resources, which, as a necessary catalyst for economic progress, could open a broad spectrum of economic opportunities.

“Going back on the theme with a focus on the application of AI, the place of global trends, including the innovative application of Artificial Intelligence components towards maximization of benefits from minerals available in our state and in tackling existential threats bedeviling us, is a reality we must come to terms with. Fully aware of this, my administration has been working with security agencies and other partners toward leveraging available technological expertise to address our challenges.

“I therefore urge you, the course participants, to critically interrogate and analyze the existing scenarios and provide us with practicable recommendations relevant to the state government for implementation. If this is achieved, this study tour will be worth its while.”

Furthermore, Governor Lawal restated that the Zamfara State government collaborates closely with security, law enforcement agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to stem the ugly trend.

“Since we assumed office about a year ago, we have initiated specific measures, including regular State Security Council meetings to review the security situation, begin a thematic course of action for implementation, and establish the Zamfara State Security Trust Fund.

“We also engage in periodic issuance and enforcement of restriction orders on specific activities that tend to aid insecurity in the State; Promulgation of an Executive Order prohibiting traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining across the fourteen (14) LGAs in response to the established correlation between banditry and illegal mining.

“Declaration of State of emergency on Health sector and Education to achieve fast and drastic progress in these sectors for the well-being of citizens and a brighter future of the state; Establishment of the Zamfara State Community Protection Guard (ZSCPG) to complement conventional law enforcement outfits in tackling security challenges in the State.”

Earlier, the team leader of the delegation from the National Institute for Security Studies, Madam Patricia Edak, praised the impressive achievements of Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration.

She stated, “Your Excellency, we have toured the state and witnessed the significant transformation you have brought about in a short period of your tenure. Zamfara State is fortunate to have you as their governor.”

SULAIMAN BALA IDRIS
Spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor
May 02, 2024

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