Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has intensified the campaign against banditry, calling on communities to expose criminal informants and work closely with security agencies to restore peace across the state.
The governor made the call during a condolence visit to families of victims killed in recent bandit attacks in communities within Shagari Local Government Area, stressing that the fight against insecurity requires the active participation of citizens, traditional institutions and community stakeholders.
Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Dadi Adare, Aliyu described informants as a major obstacle to security operations, warning that those who aid criminal elements by supplying intelligence are contributing directly to the violence affecting communities.
“We have to rise to the task of changing the equation against banditry and other forms of crime in the state. With the support and cooperation of our people, we shall overcome these challenges,” the governor said.
He urged parents to play a more proactive role in guiding their children and instilling values that discourage involvement in criminal activities, noting that families remain critical to building a peaceful and secure society.
According to him, Sokoto had for decades been known for peace, stability and harmonious coexistence before the emergence of banditry and related crimes that have disrupted livelihoods and displaced many residents.
“We were all living peacefully and carrying out our daily activities until this menace disrupted the lives of many innocent citizens,” he said.
In a show of solidarity with the affected families, the Sokoto State Government donated N1 million and 10 bags of rice to each of the four bereaved families.
Presenting the assistance, Adare said the intervention was aimed at easing the hardship faced by the families and demonstrating the government’s commitment to standing with victims of insecurity.
“No amount of support can replace the lives that were lost. This intervention is meant to ease the burden on the families and reassure them that the government shares in their pain,” he stated.
The commissioner called on residents across the state to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, activities and unfamiliar persons to security agencies, describing intelligence sharing as a vital tool in combating crime.
“This is the only way we can collectively reduce and eventually curb the trend. Security is a shared responsibility, and everyone must contribute to the protection of lives, property and livelihoods,” he said.
Adare also urged citizens to remain steadfast and prayerful, expressing confidence that perpetrators of the attacks would eventually be brought to justice.
“We pray that Almighty Allah grants the deceased eternal rest and comforts their families. Those behind these attacks will not escape divine justice,” he added.
He disclosed that the state government was strengthening security architecture in vulnerable communities through sustained support for security agencies and the implementation of measures designed to prevent future attacks.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, Adare said the government would continue to work with security agencies and community leaders to address emerging security threats across the state.
The condolence visit and presentation of relief materials were witnessed by the Chairman of Shagari Local Government, Barrister Maidawa; Commissioner for Finance, Muhammad Jabbi Shagari; representatives of the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), traditional rulers and other community leaders.
Community leaders commended Governor Aliyu for his responsiveness to the plight of affected residents and pledged continued support for efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security in Shagari and other parts of Sokoto State.
