SOKOTO, Nigeria — Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Suleiman Muhammad Abdul has called on Sokoto State leaders, youths, and communities to actively support security agencies in the fight against banditry and crime, stressing that collective action is essential to restoring peace in the region.
DIG Abdul made the appeal on Monday during a stakeholder engagement meeting in Sokoto, where he addressed traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and women’s organisations. He emphasised that security challenges in the state, particularly banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes, cannot be effectively tackled by security forces alone without the cooperation and collaboration of local communities.
The senior police officer noted that Sokoto State, like other parts of the North-West, has experienced recurring attacks by bandits, leading to loss of lives, displacement of communities, and disruption of economic activities. He stressed the importance of intelligence gathering and urged residents to provide timely and accurate information to security agencies to enable proactive responses to security threats.
DIG Abdul also called on traditional leaders to use their influence to discourage youths from engaging in criminal activities and to promote peaceful coexistence among communities. He noted that traditional institutions play a critical role in conflict resolution and community mobilisation, which are essential components of sustainable security.
The DIG further highlighted the need for communities to take ownership of their security by establishing and strengthening local vigilance groups, while also cooperating with formal security agencies. He assured residents that the Nigeria Police Force is committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to work closely with other security agencies to improve security in the state.
The meeting was attended by representatives of various security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as well as government officials and community leaders.
Responding to the DIG’s call, traditional rulers and community leaders expressed their commitment to supporting security efforts and pledged to intensify community engagement and intelligence sharing. They also called on the federal and state governments to provide more resources and logistics to security agencies to enhance their operational capabilities.
The Sokoto State Government has reiterated its support for security agencies and has called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities. As the fight against banditry continues, the message from security agencies is clear: the cooperation of communities is indispensable to achieving lasting peace and security in Sokoto State.
