The government of Sokoto State has announced plans to introduce a new law that will prescribe strict punishment for individuals who provide information to bandits operating in the state.
The move is part of renewed efforts to curb rising insecurity and weaken criminal networks across rural communities.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu made this known while paying Sallah homage to the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, at his palace.
The governor said his administration is preparing to forward an executive bill to the State House of Assembly to criminalise and punish informant activities that support bandit operations.
The statement was contained in a release issued by the Director General of Media and Publicity at Government House, Abubakar Bawa. According to the governor, insecurity cannot be defeated without the cooperation of residents, stressing that community support remains central to ongoing security operations.
He warned that informants play a major role in sustaining bandit attacks, adding that without them, criminal groups would struggle to operate effectively. He maintained that his government will intensify collaboration with security agencies and provide necessary backing to strengthen ongoing operations across affected areas.
“We need to come together and stop the informant syndrome if we are to succeed in defeating bandits,” he said.
Governor Aliyu also raised concern over vandalism of public infrastructure, noting that government projects are financed with public funds and must be protected by citizens. He warned that his administration would not hesitate to act against those destroying public assets.
He further cautioned politicians against actions that could destabilise peace in the state, especially as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of future elections.
In his response, the Sultan called for peaceful and issue-based politics, urging political actors to avoid actions that could trigger conflict or division. He commended ongoing government projects across the state and encouraged citizens to continue supporting government programmes aimed at development and stability.
The Sultan later hosted Governor Aliyu, along with former Governor Aliyu Wamakko and other officials, to a special lunch at the palace.