Sokoto Security Adviser Urges New AIG to Intensify Fight Against Banditry

The Sokoto State Government’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (retd.), has urged the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 10, Ahmed Musa, to intensify efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the North-West.

Usman made the call while congratulating Musa on his assumption of duty as the 25th AIG of Zone 10 Police Headquarters in Sokoto, which oversees policing in Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states.

In a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday, the security adviser described Musa’s appointment as an opportunity to strengthen security operations and improve collaboration among agencies tackling persistent security threats in the region.

He expressed confidence in the new AIG’s ability to deliver, noting that his previous tenure as Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State had given him firsthand knowledge of the security challenges confronting the area.

According to Usman, this experience could help Musa develop effective strategies to tackle criminal activities and improve security across the three states.

He urged the police chief to sustain the campaign against criminal elements through intelligence-led policing, strategic deployment of personnel and better operational coordination among security agencies.

Usman also called for stronger cooperation among the police, military, community leaders and local security outfits to improve the protection of lives and property.

“The complex security situation in the North-West requires sustained commitment, strategic leadership and collective action by security agencies, government authorities and citizens,” he said.

The security adviser stressed the importance of intelligence gathering and information sharing, noting that timely and credible information from residents was crucial to preventing attacks, rescuing abducted persons and bringing perpetrators to justice.

He further urged Musa to prioritise the protection of vulnerable communities, strengthen police-community relations and ensure that officers under his command maintained professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights.

Usman appealed to residents of Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states to support security agencies by providing useful information about the activities of criminal groups.

He also cautioned residents against spreading unverified reports capable of causing panic or undermining ongoing security operations.

The adviser assured Musa of the Sokoto State Government’s continued support for security agencies working to restore lasting peace and stability in affected communities.

He wished the new AIG a successful tenure, expressing optimism that his leadership would strengthen security operations and improve public confidence in policing across Zone 10.