The Sokoto State Government has appealed to political parties and other stakeholders to put aside partisan differences and work together to tackle the growing security challenges confronting communities across the state.
The government made the call on Thursday in reaction to concerns raised by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, over alleged threats to residents of Kebbe Local Government Area.
The Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security Matters said the government was aware of the reported threat and had directed relevant authorities to take the matter seriously.
“The reported threat to Kebbe is being treated with the seriousness it deserves. Relevant security agencies are working with the state government, traditional institutions and local communities to assess the situation and take appropriate measures to prevent any attack,” he said.
He appealed to residents of Kebbe and other communities considered vulnerable to remain alert and promptly share information on suspicious activities with security agencies.
The development comes against the backdrop of persistent attacks and threats by suspected bandits and other criminal elements in parts of Sokoto, particularly communities in Kebbe and other areas in the southern and eastern parts of the state.
The adviser said the security situation was a longstanding challenge which predated the present administration, adding that the government had taken steps to improve the capacity of security agencies to respond to emerging threats.
He said Dan’iya, having served as Deputy Governor in the immediate past administration, was familiar with the security situation and should be able to assess the measures being taken by the current government.
“Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan’iya served as Deputy Governor during the previous administration and, therefore, is in a good position to appreciate the difference in approach between the two administrations, particularly in terms of government support to security agencies and the response to emerging security threats,” he said.
According to him, the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu had increased funding and logistical support for security agencies operating in the state.
“We did not only restore the monthly allowances of security personnel which had been discontinued by the previous administration; we also reviewed and increased those allowances,” he said.
He listed the provision of Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, patrol vehicles and other security equipment among measures taken to strengthen security operations.
“These investments demonstrate clearly that the government is not merely making statements about security; it is taking concrete steps and committing significant resources towards addressing the challenge,” he said.
The adviser stressed, however, that government efforts could only succeed with the active participation of communities and other stakeholders.
“Security should therefore not be turned into a political contest. Political differences are normal in a democracy, but the safety and security of citizens should remain above partisan interests,” he said.
He warned that political disagreements over insecurity could create unnecessary tension and undermine efforts to protect residents.
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“Criminal elements do not distinguish between APC, ADC, PDP or any other political party when attacking communities. Their victims are citizens, regardless of their political affiliation,” he said.
He consequently urged political actors to support security agencies with credible intelligence rather than engage in blame games.
“What our people need is cooperation, intelligence sharing and practical solutions, not statements that could heighten fear or create unnecessary political tension,” he said.
The adviser assured residents that the state government would continue to work with security agencies, traditional institutions and local communities to strengthen intelligence gathering and prevent attacks.
“Security is a collective responsibility. It should unite us, not divide us. At this moment, Sokoto needs all hands on deck, irrespective of political affiliation, to defeat the criminal elements threatening the peace and livelihood of our people,” he said.
