Sokoto Political Tension: Arewa Group Petitions UK, Accuses Aliyu, Wamakko of Opposition Suppression
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
Among its demands, the Forum urged the British High Commission and other diplomatic missions to engage urgently with the Sokoto State Government and federal authorities to guarantee peaceful political participation before, during and after the November 4 campaign flag-off.
It also called for independent investigations into the alleged attacks on ADC women and the governorship candidate, the circumstances surrounding Aliyu KC’s release, and reports of the recruitment, financing and protection of individuals allegedly involved in political violence.
Additionally, the group asked diplomatic missions to consider visa restrictions and other applicable sanctions against individuals identified as perpetrators or sponsors based on credible evidence.
It further demanded an explanation from the Sokoto State Government over the closure of the ADC campaign office, insisting that the facility should be reopened unless a lawful justification for the action could be established.
The Forum warned Governor Ahmed Aliyu, the Sokoto State Government and Senator Aliyu Wamakko that they would be held politically accountable for any further violence linked to their supporters or alleged proxies.
“Sokoto belongs to its people. No governor, former governor, or ruling party owns its political space” the petition declared.
The group also requested an urgent opportunity to brief political and human-rights officers of the British High Commission, while urging all political actors to reject retaliation and support peaceful democratic participation.
As of the time of filing this report, the Sokoto State Government, Senator Wamakko and the APC had yet to respond to the allegations. Efforts to obtain their reactions were ongoing.
