The Sokoto State Government has defended its decision to initiate dialogue with bandits who voluntarily lay down their arms, describing the move as a necessary step to tackle insecurity and bring peace to affected communities.
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This clarification followed criticism by a social media user, Basharu Altine Guyawa, who questioned the state’s approach.
Speaking on behalf of the government, Colonel Ahmed Usman (Rtd), the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Ahmed Aliyu, said the administration’s strategy is a mix of military operations and peace negotiations. He insisted that engaging in dialogue does not reflect weakness, but shows a calculated effort to restore lasting peace.
Col. Usman also pointed out what he called a contradiction in Guyawa’s remarks, recalling that the critic had in the past shown interest in mediating with armed groups. He said the government’s plan is a practical and human-focused one, aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity rather than just the symptoms.
He noted that insecurity has taken a heavy toll on rural areas, where people have been forced from their homes, farming activities have stopped, and local economies have suffered. According to him, the government believes only a comprehensive approach can bring relief and stability to those communities.
