The Sokoto State Government on Thursday said it has taken note of the concerns raised by the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, regarding the reported threat against residents of Kebbe.
While the State government appreciates the concerns expressed by all stakeholders over the security situation, it emphasised that the protection of lives and property remains the foremost priority of the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the Special Adviser on Security Matters, the Sokoto State Government noted that the reported threat to Kebbe is being treated with the seriousness it deserves.
It also noted that 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.
Residents are therefore urged to remain calm, vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
“However, it is important to put the current security situation in its proper context. Insecurity in Sokoto State did not start with the present administration.
“The challenge had already taken root during the previous administration, and addressing it with greater urgency could have yielded better results today.
“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.
“This administration has made significant investments in security and has consistently provided security agencies operating in the state with the necessary support to enhance their effectiveness.
“We not only restored the monthly allowances of security personnel which had been discontinued by the previous administration; we also reviewed and increased those allowances.
“In addition, the government has continued to provide substantial logistical support, including MRAP vehicles, new patrol vehicles and other modern security equipment and gadgets to strengthen the operational capacity of security agencies.
“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.
“It is also important to stress that insecurity is a complex challenge that cannot be resolved by government alone.
“It requires collective action involving the Federal Government, state government, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and, most importantly, the people themselves.
“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.
“By the time we politicise security, we risk losing sight of the real objective, which is to protect human lives and restore peace to affected communities.
“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.
“Rather than trading accusations, all political actors should support efforts aimed at strengthening security and providing useful information to the authorities.
“At this critical period, what our people need is cooperation, intelligence sharing and practical solutions, not statements that could heighten fear or create unnecessary political tension.
“As Special Adviser on Security Matters, I acknowledge the concerns of residents of Kebbe and other vulnerable communities.
“The government equally understands the anxiety created by threats from criminal elements.
“That is why the reported threat is being taken seriously, and security agencies have been encouraged to remain proactive.
“We commend the security personnel who continue to make sacrifices in difficult circumstances and the traditional and community leaders who have continued to cooperate with the authorities.
“The government will continue to provide the necessary support to security agencies, strengthen intelligence gathering and work with communities to prevent attacks and protect lives and property.
“Our appeal to the people of Kebbe and other vulnerable communities is to remain calm, vigilant and cooperate with security agencies. Residents should not take security threats lightly, but neither should they allow such threats to create unnecessary panic.
“The government remains committed to confronting insecurity through sustained investment, intelligence-led operations, community engagement and close coordination with security agencies.
“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.”
Source: New Telegraph
