The Sokoto State Government has issued a stern warning to residents against making sensational remarks that could hinder its ongoing efforts to combat insecurity across the state.
The caution was conveyed in a statement on Sunday by Colonel Ahmed Usman (Retired), the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Ahmed Aliyu.
The warning follows a recent statement attributed to Basharu Altine Giyawa, who allegedly attempted to portray the state government as failing in its responsibility to ensure security.
In reaction, the state government stated that such comments were not only misleading but also capable of dampening public morale and undermining the efforts of security agencies.
“According to the statement, this type of comment can discourage people from appreciating what the government and security operatives have been doing to end insecurity in the state.”
Reaffirming the governor’s stance, Col. Usman stressed the need for collective responsibility in addressing the security challenges facing Sokoto State.
“As the Governor always says, security is a collective issue; the government alone cannot provide security without the contribution and support of the citizenry,” he said.
“Therefore, our people should avoid sensationalizing and politicizing insecurity; rather, they should support the government in its effort to find lasting solutions to our security challenges.
“The government will not condone any attempt by any individual or group to frustrate its efforts or distract it in this regard.”
He noted that the government, in collaboration with security agencies, has been working tirelessly to restore peace, particularly in the eastern axis of the state, where incidents of banditry and kidnapping have been rampant.
As part of the effort, the state recently supported a joint security operation in the troubled area, which led to the destruction of several identified bandits’ hideouts, the neutralisation of numerous armed bandits, and the rescue of tens of kidnap victims.
In addition to the military success, the Sokoto State Government has consistently provided financial and logistical support to all security agencies in the state. This includes the restoration of monthly allowances previously suspended by the past administration.
It also involves the donation of hundreds of patrol vehicles and motorcycles since Governor Ahmed Aliyu assumed office.
To further consolidate gains, the government has established regular interactive platforms where security operatives, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders exchange ideas and coordinate strategies to combat insecurity.
“Alhamdulillah, the impact of their meetings is manifesting in our community because there is a drastic reduction in attacks in the state,” the statement added.
In a surprising twist, the government recalled that the same Basharu Altine Giyawa—who is now making critical statements—had only a few months ago honoured Governor Ahmed Aliyu with an award of excellence.
The award, presented by Giyawa in February under the aegis of the Movement for Social Justice in Nigeria, was in recognition of the government’s efforts toward sustaining peace and security.
“During the presentation of the award at the government house in Sokoto, Giyawa admitted that the state government had provided all the necessary intervention, which is yielding positive results in the fight against insurgency.”
