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From Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
The Special Adviser on Security Matters to Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has urged political leaders and other stakeholders to unite in the fight against banditry, stressing that criminals do not discriminate based on political, religious or social affiliations when attacking communities.
The Special Adviser made the call while reacting to recent comments by some opposition politicians on the security situation in the state.
He acknowledged the right of opposition figures to express their views, but urged them to ensure that their interventions are guided by the need to protect lives and support ongoing efforts to restore peace across the state.
According to him, the fight against banditry should not be politicised because the consequences of insecurity affect everyone, regardless of political affiliation.
He urged opposition leaders and other stakeholders to emulate the approach of former governor and Senator representing Sokoto North, Aliyu Wamakko, whom he said had continued to support 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. 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 Special Adviser added that the government appreciated politicians who had demonstrated genuine commitment to addressing insecurity, regardless of their political affiliations.
“We appreciate those politicians who have demonstrated genuine commitment to addressing insecurity in the state. Their support, regardless of political affiliation, is important because the fight against banditry requires collective responsibility.
“We encourage others to emulate such efforts and contribute positively to the search for lasting solutions,” he said.
He therefore appealed to political leaders to put aside partisan differences and work with the government and security agencies to tackle the security challenges confronting the state.
“Bandits have no political party. They do not ask whether their victims are members of the APC, PDP or any other party before attacking. That is why all hands must be on deck”
“Those who have ideas or suggestions should bring them forward constructively, while those with the capacity to support security efforts should do so. At this moment, what matters most is the protection of lives and property and the restoration of peace across the state.”
He stressed that security was a collective responsibility, urging political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and members of the public to support security agencies by providing useful information and avoiding statements that could undermine ongoing operations.
He said the state government remained committed to strengthening security and working with all stakeholders to ensure that communities across Sokoto could live, farm and conduct their businesses without fear.
