Banditry Cannot Be Defeated Without Residents’ Support, Sokoto Deputy Gov. Warns
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
Residents of Sokoto State have been urged to promptly report suspicious movements and activities in their communities to security agencies to enhance efforts at tackling insecurity across the state.
The appeal was made by the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Idris Mohammed Gobir, during a visit to Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs affected by recent bandit attacks on Dalgulbi village and other communities in Tureta Local Government Area.
Addressing the victims, Gobir stressed that security agencies cannot successfully combat banditry without the cooperation and support of residents. He noted that community members play a crucial role in providing timely information that can help prevent attacks and apprehend criminals.
The Deputy Governor reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration to tackling banditry and other criminal activities, describing the protection of lives and property as the primary responsibility of government.
According to him, the state government will continue to introduce and strengthen measures aimed at improving security and safeguarding communities across Sokoto State.
Gobir also commended security personnel in Tureta for their swift response to the attack, which reportedly led to the pursuit and neutralization of some of the bandits involved.
He expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones in the attacks and prayed for the repose of the deceased.
As part of the government’s support package, the Deputy Governor announced the donation of N30 million and 300 bags of rice to the families of those who lost their lives.
He also disclosed that 1,200 bags of rice and N10 million had been approved for displaced persons, while victims receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the attacks would receive N5 million in assistance.
Gobir urged members of the committee responsible for distributing the relief materials and funds to ensure fairness, transparency and justice in carrying out their duties.
Earlier, the Acting Vice Chairman of Tureta Local Government, Alhaji Umar, thanked the state government for standing by the victims during the difficult period. The representative of the District Head of Tureta, Malam Bashir Sani, also expressed appreciation for the government’s condolence visit and support.
The Deputy Governor was accompanied on the visit by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Muhammad Bello Sifawa the Chief of Staff, Government House, Alhaji Aminu Haliru Dikko and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Dadi Adare.
