Published by Osasere Edomwonyi Ikpoba
The Sokoto State Government has issued a stern warning to politicians and political parties against turning the escalating security crisis into a partisan battleground, insisting that the fight against banditry requires a united front rather than accusations and counter-accusations. The government's rebuke came in response to concerns raised by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, Hon. Manir Muhammad Dan'iya, over reported threats against residents of Kebbe Local Government Area, a community that has in recent weeks faced attacks, displacement, and threats to livelihoods by suspected criminal elements.
Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security Matters, Colonel Ahmed Usman (rtd), who spoke on behalf of the government on Thursday, September 3, 2026, was unequivocal in his message: criminal elements do not care about political affiliations, and politicians who exploit insecurity for electoral gain are doing a disservice to the very people they seek to lead. "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," Usman declared. He stressed that security should not be turned into a political contest, warning that politicising insecurity could undermine efforts to protect communities and restore peace.
The government's statement was delivered against the backdrop of persistent attacks and threats by suspected bandits in parts of Sokoto, particularly communities in Kebbe and other areas in the southern and eastern parts of the state. The security adviser acknowledged that the reported threat to Kebbe was being treated with the seriousness it deserved, and that relevant security agencies were working with the state government, traditional institutions, and local communities to assess the situation and take appropriate measures to prevent any attack. He urged residents of Kebbe and other vulnerable communities to remain calm but vigilant, and to promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security authorities.
However, the government did not stop at urging calm. It pushed back forcefully against the ADC candidate's concerns, arguing that insecurity in Sokoto predated the present administration and that Dan'iya, having served as deputy governor in the previous administration, was in a position to appreciate the difference in approach between the two governments. Usman noted that Dan'iya's experience should enable him to assess the current government's security efforts objectively. "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.
The security adviser then reeled off a list of what he described as concrete steps taken by Governor Aliyu's administration to address the security crisis. According to Usman, the government had not only restored the monthly allowances of security personnel, which had been discontinued by the previous administration, but had also reviewed and increased those allowances. The government had also provided Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, patrol vehicles, and other security equipment 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," Usman said.
Despite these efforts, the government acknowledged that insecurity remained a complex challenge requiring more than government intervention alone. Usman stressed the importance of cooperation among security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, and residents. He called on political parties and their candidates to channel useful intelligence to security agencies rather than engage in accusations and counter-accusations. "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 government's message was not entirely defensive. It also held up Senator Aliyu Wamakko, the former governor and Senator representing Sokoto North, as a model of constructive engagement. Usman praised Wamakko for supporting victims and communities affected by banditry while engaging individuals and institutions capable of contributing to efforts to address the security challenges. "Senator Aliyu Wamakko has demonstrated that there is a better way to contribute to the fight against insecurity," Usman said. "He has not only supported victims and communities affected by banditry, but has also been reaching out to those who matter, seeking their commitment and support towards finding lasting solutions to the security challenges facing the state".
The government's appeal for unity comes at a time when banditry has become a defining issue in Sokoto's political landscape. The state has witnessed a surge in attacks, with communities in Sabon Birni, Isa, and Rabah local government areas among the hardest hit. The crisis has already triggered political fallout, with Senator Ibrahim Lamido recently announcing his decision to leave the All Progressives Congress, citing worsening insecurity in his constituency. The senator's departure underscores the depth of public frustration and the political currency that insecurity has acquired.
For its part, the Sokoto State Government has made clear that it will not allow security to be reduced to a partisan football. Usman warned that political disagreements over insecurity could create unnecessary tension and undermine efforts to protect residents. He appealed to political actors to support security agencies with credible intelligence rather than engage in blame games. "Security is a collective responsibility. It should unite us, not divide us," he said. "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".
As the government continues to invest in security infrastructure and strengthen collaboration with communities, the challenge remains immense. Bandits have shown no signs of relenting, and the humanitarian toll continues to mount. But the government's message is clear: the fight against banditry must be fought together, not exploited for political gain. Whether politicians will heed that call remains to be seen. For the people of Kebbe and other vulnerable communities, however, the urgency of action speaks louder than any political rhetoric.
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