Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State plans to introduce legislation targeting those who aid bandits. He disclosed this while paying homage to the Sultan of Sokoto at his palace.
Abubakar Bawa, the Governor's media chief, made the announcement on Wednesday. It came during the governor's visit to Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III.
Aliyu stressed that fighting banditry is everyone's responsibility. He called on citizens to work with security forces to tackle the crisis.
"We need to come together and stop the informant syndrome if we are to succeed in defeating bandits," he noted. Citizens must support law enforcement, he added.
According to the governor, informants are deadlier than the criminals themselves. Bandits cannot operate without insider information, he observed.
He reaffirmed backing for security agencies in their operations. His administration will provide all necessary support to curb the menace.
Aliyu commended security forces for progress in some areas. Their efforts against insecurity deserve recognition, he said.
He also warned against destroying public property across the state. Taxpayer money funds these projects and citizens must protect them.
Political actors were warned against destabilising current peace in Sokoto. His government won't allow actions that threaten communal harmony.
The Sultan of Sokoto backed the governor's stance. Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III called for peaceful politics ahead of elections.
He praised ongoing development initiatives in the state. Residents should continue supporting government programmes, the Sultan urged.
Both officials later shared a special lunch. The meal included Aliyu Wamakko and other government functionaries.
