Governor Ahmed Aliyu has pledged sustained pressure on bandits following a high-level meeting with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, in Abuja.
The assurance was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s media aide, Abubakar Bawa, noting that the meeting held on Wednesday at the Force Headquarters focused on strengthening collaboration to curb violent crimes in Sokoto State and beyond.
“We are doing this because of our strong belief that protecting the lives and property of our people is a collective responsibility, not that of the Federal Government alone,” Mr Aliyu said.
The meeting follows the attack, which took place late Tuesday night in Malamawar Yari village, Kware LGA, Sokoto State, where suspected bandits killed two residents and abducted 11 others, including women, men, and a child.
Security priority
Mr Aliyu stressed that security remains the cornerstone of his administration’s 9-Point Smart Innovative Agenda, adding that development cannot thrive without peace.
“As such, we are determined to partner with the police and all relevant security agencies to further strengthen security across the state,” he said.
Logistics support
The governor disclosed that over 200 patrol vehicles had been procured and distributed to security agencies since he assumed office, describing the move as part of efforts to boost rapid response and operational efficiency.
He acknowledged that banditry remains a persistent threat but noted that security forces have recorded notable gains in recent months.
“Despite the challenges, significant progress has been made. We must sustain the momentum,” he added.
Call for synergy
Mr Aliyu emphasised the importance of intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation in tackling insecurity, warning that fragmented efforts could undermine progress.
He also paid tribute to former Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Musa, now an Assistant Inspector-General, describing him as “a brave, disciplined, and committed officer.”
The governor further challenged the newly posted Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Shaffa Hassan, to build on the legacy of his predecessor.
Police response
Responding, Mr Egbetokun commended the Sokoto State Government for its consistent support to security operations, assuring continued collaboration.
“We will continue to collaborate closely with your administration to ensure Sokoto becomes safer and more secure,” he said.
Mr Aliyu was accompanied on the visit by the Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, and Chief of Staff, Aminu Haliru Dikko.
The meeting underscores renewed efforts by state and federal authorities to intensify the fight against banditry in Nigeria’s northwest, amid ongoing security challenges affecting rural communities.
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