- Sokoto’s security adviser urged politicians to unite against banditry
- He said insecurity should not be politicised
- He also called for stronger cooperation with security agencies
Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, retired Colonel Ahmed Usman, has urged politicians and other stakeholders to set aside political differences and work together to tackle banditry in the state.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Usman made the appeal on Sunday in a statement responding to recent remarks by opposition politicians concerning the security situation in Sokoto.
He warned against turning insecurity into a political issue, stressing that bandits do not distinguish between political parties when attacking communities.
According to him, victims of bandit attacks include ordinary residents regardless of whether they support the All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party or any other political group.
Usman therefore described the fight against insecurity as a shared responsibility, noting that its impact is felt across political and social divides.
While acknowledging the right of opposition figures to criticise government policies, he urged them to ensure that their contributions help strengthen efforts to protect residents and restore peace.
The governor’s adviser specifically praised former Sokoto State Governor and current senator representing Sokoto North, Aliyu Wamakko, for his continued efforts to assist communities affected by banditry and engage individuals and organisations that could contribute to finding solutions.
Usman said Wamakko had demonstrated that political leaders could play a constructive role in tackling insecurity by supporting victims and communities while seeking wider cooperation to address the crisis.
He added that no single government agency or institution could defeat banditry alone, urging other political leaders to follow similar approaches irrespective of party affiliation.
The security adviser also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders and members of the public to cooperate with the state government and security agencies.
He encouraged individuals with useful ideas to present them constructively and appealed to those capable of supporting security operations to contribute towards the effort.
Usman said the immediate priority should be protecting lives and property and restoring peace across Sokoto State.
He further urged residents to provide security agencies with credible and timely intelligence while avoiding comments or actions that could disrupt ongoing operations.
The adviser assured residents that the Sokoto State Government would continue strengthening security measures and working with relevant stakeholders to create an environment where people can live, farm and conduct their businesses without fear.
