Governors across Nigeria's North-West region have adopted a hardened stance against insecurity, ruling out negotiations with bandits and reinforcing a coordinated strategy to restore stability. This position was reiterated by Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, during the commissioning of the N12.6 billion Yandaki–Shinkafi–Kofar Sauri Road project in Katsina State.
Unified Rejection of Negotiations
Governor Aliyu declared, "We will not negotiate with any criminal, nor will we accept any offer from them unless they surrender unconditionally." This statement reflects a broader shift in regional security policy, as North-West governments prioritize enforcement and operational coordination over dialogue with criminal networks.
Strengthening Security Collaboration
Aliyu noted that efforts are underway to enhance collaboration with security agencies while expanding investments in security infrastructure to dismantle bandit operations. He emphasized the importance of community participation in intelligence gathering, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements.
"We must do the needful at the community level by remaining vigilant and monitoring the movement of suspicious individuals," he said. The governor expressed confidence that sustained cooperation between citizens and security forces would yield long-term results.
Support for Community-Based Security
Aliyu commended Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, for establishing the State Community Guard, describing it as a strategic complement to existing security structures. He disclosed that Sokoto State had adopted a similar model after observing its effectiveness in Katsina, noting that community-based approaches are becoming increasingly vital in responding to localized threats.
The Sokoto governor also praised Radda, who chairs the North-West APC Governors' Forum, for his proactive leadership in coordinating regional responses to insecurity.
Renewed Political Alignment
The commissioning event highlighted renewed political alignment among North-West governors, with a shared commitment to intensify efforts against banditry and restore peace across affected communities. The collective resolve underscores a unified approach to tackling the region's security challenges.
