The Sokoto State Government has defended its decision to engage in dialogue with repentant bandits as part of a broader security strategy aimed at restoring peace in the state’s troubled areas, dismissing criticisms from others.
Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd), the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, responded to remarks made by security consultant Basharu Altine Giyawa, who recently condemned the state’s willingness to negotiate with armed groups that are willing to surrender.
Giyawa had previously criticized the government for this approach, labeling it a misguided decision. In his statement, Col. Usman noted that Giyawa had, in the past, expressed interest in mediating between the government and such groups.
“This inconsistency calls into question the sincerity of his current stance,” Col. Usman said.
Usman added that the administration is not negotiating from a place of weakness or desperation but is adopting a “stick-and-carrot” approach — balancing military force with non-violent options in line with modern counterinsurgency strategies.
“Our people in Rabah, Goronyo, Isa, Sabon Birni, and other affected LGAs are living with the daily trauma of displacement, farmers have abandoned their fields, food production has dropped, and economic activities have come to a halt. This affects food security and inflation across Sokoto State.”
Colonel Usman stated that the objective of the engagement is to establish long-term peace by reintegrating repentant bandits under strict supervision and rehabilitation.
This will continue alongside military operations against those criminal elements who refuse to disarm. He emphasized that this approach is not an act of appeasement, but rather a strategic reconciliation aimed at achieving lasting peace and development.
The government urged critics to engage constructively and focus on solutions rather than fostering division, highlighting that the scale of insecurity in Sokoto requires unity, cooperation, and pragmatic approaches.
Additionally, he noted that Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration has consistently affirmed its commitment to securing all areas of the state and revitalizing socio-economic activities in regions affected by violence.