Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Tambuwal, on Thursday paid a visit to communities affected by recent bandit attacks in Bodinga Local Government Area, urging President Bola Tinubu to place national security above political activities.
While sympathising with victims displaced by the attacks, Tambuwal described the worsening insecurity in Sokoto and across Nigeria as deeply troubling, stressing that safeguarding lives and property remains the foremost responsibility of any government.
“We are here in Bodinga Local Government Area to commiserate with the people over the recent attacks by bandits. We are deeply concerned about what is happening here, across Sokoto State and indeed the entire country,” he said.
The lawmaker expressed concern that the Federal Government appeared more focused on politics than tackling the country’s security crisis.
“This is the time the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, should focus on the number one responsibility of government as enshrined in the Constitution — the security of lives and property.
“The President, his team and his party should devote their energy to addressing insecurity rather than engaging in electioneering activities,” Tambuwal said.
He further appealed to Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to channel greater attention towards restoring peace and security nationwide.
“I call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to de-emphasise politics and focus on governance, particularly the issue of insecurity. It is only when people are safe and secure that they can fully benefit from roads and other infrastructure,” he added.
Tambuwal also reaffirmed his support for the establishment of state police, saying he remained in favour of the initiative despite fears that some governors could misuse the outfit for political purposes.
“Yes, we are in opposition in Sokoto State, but I support state police because I believe every genuine effort aimed at restoring security should be encouraged. It is only when there is security that there can be meaningful development,” he said.
The former governor recalled that he had consistently advocated stronger security measures since serving in the House of Representatives.
During the visit, Tambuwal announced a donation of ₦20 million to victims displaced by the attacks. He said ₦10 million would go to affected families in Bodinga, while another ₦10 million would be provided to victims of an earlier attack in Tureta Local Government Area.
“I hereby support our brothers and sisters displaced by these unfortunate attacks in Bodinga with the sum of ₦10 million, and I extend the same support to those displaced in Tureta as we work with NEMA to provide relief. May Allah grant those who lost their lives Aljannatul Firdaus and bring an end to this menace,” he said.
The visit comes amid renewed concerns over recurring bandit attacks in parts of Sokoto State, with residents continuing to demand stronger security measures to protect lives and livelihoods.
