The Sokoto State Government has issued a stern warning to its residents against making inflammatory and sensational statements that could jeopardize the ongoing efforts to combat insecurity within the state. This cautionary advisory comes in response to comments made by Basharu Altine Guyawa, the convener of the Movement for Social Justice in Nigeria, who allegedly questioned the government’s commitment to security. The government has dismissed Guyawa’s accusations as misleading and counterproductive, emphasizing the potential of such rhetoric to undermine public morale and obscure the substantial progress achieved in the fight against banditry and kidnapping.
The Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security, Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd), underscored the importance of collective responsibility in addressing security challenges. He stressed that the government’s success hinges on the active support and collaboration of the citizenry. He urged the public to refrain from politicizing security matters and emphasized the crucial role of constructive engagement and community cooperation in restoring lasting peace. This call for unity reflects the administration’s recognition that security is not solely the purview of the government but a shared responsibility requiring concerted efforts from all stakeholders.
The Sokoto State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, has embarked on a series of joint operations targeting troublesome areas, particularly in the eastern part of the state. These operations have resulted in the dismantling of numerous bandit hideouts, the neutralization of several criminal elements, and the liberation of dozens of kidnapped victims. These tangible achievements underscore the government’s commitment to addressing the security challenges facing the state and demonstrate the effectiveness of the collaborative approach adopted by the administration.
Furthermore, Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration has demonstrated its commitment to bolstering security efforts through significant logistical and financial investments. This includes reinstating monthly allowances for security personnel that were previously suspended by the former administration. In addition, the government has donated hundreds of patrol vehicles and motorcycles to enhance operational efficiency and improve the mobility of security forces. These investments demonstrate the administration’s recognition of the crucial role played by well-equipped and motivated security personnel in ensuring the safety and security of the state.
The government’s commitment to a multi-faceted approach is further exemplified by the establishment of regular stakeholder engagement platforms. These platforms bring together security operatives, community leaders, and traditional institutions to facilitate the exchange of ideas and strategies. This collaborative approach has fostered improved communication and coordination, contributing to a noticeable decline in attacks and a general improvement in the state’s security landscape. The engagement of diverse stakeholders reflects the administration’s understanding of the complex nature of security challenges and the need for a holistic approach that leverages the expertise and insights of all concerned parties.
Ironically, Guyawa, who now criticizes the government, had previously commended Governor Aliyu’s efforts in maintaining peace and security, even presenting him with an award of excellence in February of this year. During the award presentation at the Government House, Sokoto, Guyawa reportedly acknowledged the positive impact of the government’s decisive interventions in curbing insecurity. This apparent contradiction raises questions about the motivation behind Guyawa’s recent criticism and underscores the government’s assertion that such statements could be politically motivated and detrimental to the ongoing efforts to address insecurity. The Sokoto State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the momentum in its security operations and has issued a clear warning that it will not tolerate any attempts by individuals or groups to distract or derail its mission to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
