By Mohammed Umar
A recent publication in the online Vanguard of Monday , 6/7/2026 carried a news item in which the Sokoto State ADC governorship candidate for 2027 election ostensibly showed concern on the insecurity in the state.
I perceived the news as a cynical attempt to weaponize the issue of insecurity for cheap political gains. While the ADC puts on a theatrical performance of concern, the reality is that their rhetoric is not only misleading but also a dangerous attempt to undermine the collective efforts of the security agencies and the state government.
While it is germine for any opposition party to criticize the government, it is crucial to base such criticisms on objective assessments rather than populist rhetoric. The statements therefore requires a careful consideration of the facts.
Insecurity, it must be understood, is a complex issue that transcends state boundaries and is influenced by various national and global factors. Blaming or tasking the state government alone overlooks the multifaceted nature of the problem, including economic challenges, social unrest, and regional dynamics that require collaborative solutions rather than mere finger-pointing.
According to sources from Bodinga local government area of the state from where the ADC candidate based his concern it was learnt that bandits attacked some villages in the local government, particularly Kulodo village where they killed the village head and his son. Some concerned citizens became worried by the sad development hence they came out to demonstrate against the insecurity.
Unfortunately some undesirable elements not only hijacked the protest but blocked the main road in Bodinga town where they spent many hours before they were dispersed by security personnel.
It is hypocritical, to say the least, for a party that has been conspicuously silent on state government’s efforts on security to suddenly find its voice against the same government that has been proactive.
It is on record that the current Sokoto State administration has made significant strides in addressing security concerns. The state government, under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, has not only procured over 200 brand new vehicles and sophisticated communication gadgets for security operatives but has also established a robust synergy with traditional rulers and local vigilantes.
Records available showed that Sokoto State government has constructed 100 modern housing units, along with a solar mini-grid, a climate peace hub, and other amenities, to shelter persons displaced by recent floods and insecurity in Amarawa village of Illela local government area of the state.
Similarly, in Rabah local government area, the government flagged off the construction of another 100 housing units for IDPs in this area. Historically, this LGA (specifically in Gandi village) was also the site of a 150-unit IDP resettlement city project initiated in partnership with foreign NGOs.
In Sokoto metropolis, the state executive council had approved the purchase of a private building for N100 million to serve as a permanent IDP shelter to accommodate and help integrate displaced persons in the state capital.
Only recently the government procured 62 armoured vehicles, 320 motorcycles and high-tech gadgets and handed all to the security.
Where was the ADC when these initiatives were being rolled out?
Their selective amnesia is a clear indication that their interest is not the safety of Sokoto citizens, but the survival of their crises -ridden party.
Furthermore, the insecurity plaguing the North-West is a national crisis —a fact the ADC conveniently ignored. To now turn around and blame a state government that has committed unprecedented resources to security is a master class in political deceit.
The ADC cannot ride on the back of national tragedies to revive their troubled party.
If the ADC is truly interested in fighting insecurity, they should join hands with the government to find solutions to the problem rather than acting as demolition squads from the sidelines. Let them come forward with constructive suggestions, not inflammatory press releases designed to instill fear and score political points. The people of Sokoto are wiser than the ADC gives them credit for; they see through this desperate attempt to remain relevant. . Moreover, rather than politicizing the issue of security, a united front among all political parties would serve the interests of the people far better. It is only through collaboration that we can tackle the root causes of insecurity effectively.
While it is the duty of the opposition to hold the government accountable, it is equally important to approach these issues with integrity and a commitment to constructive dialogue. The people of Sokoto deserve a political landscape that prioritizes solutions over sensationalism. Let’s work together for a safer and more prosperous Sokoto State.
Finally, the good people of Sokoto should disregard this propaganda. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to protect lives and property, and it will not be distracted by the antics of a party that has nothing to offer but noise.
