The Sokoto State Government has moved swiftly to address and correct misinformation circulating online regarding the security situation in one of its communities.
Setting the Record Straight on Viral Video
On 16 January 2026, the state administration issued a formal statement to debunk claims from a viral social media video. The footage allegedly showed residents of Tidibale village in Isa Local Council being forcibly displaced by bandits.
Abubakar Bawa, the Director-General of Media and Publicity at the Government House, clarified the actual events. He confirmed the individuals in the video were indeed from Tidibale but were not chased away by bandits.
Precautionary Relocation and Swift Government Action
The government explained that local authorities acted on a rumour about a potential bandit attack on the community. This information caused understandable tension among the villagers.
The sequence of events was as follows:
- The ward councillor, Dayyabu Sani, reported the rumour to the Chairman of Isa Local Council, Alhaji Sherifu Kamarawa.
- The Chairman then directed a temporary, precautionary relocation of the villagers to the local government headquarters in Isa.
- This was a safety measure, not a reaction to an actual attack.
The affected residents have since returned safely to their homes in Tidibale. Security patrols in the area have been intensified to prevent any criminal activity.
Enhanced Security Measures and Public Appeal
In a significant move to bolster security, the Sokoto State Government has approved the establishment of a Forward Operations Base (FOB) in the area. This new base will work alongside existing security formations within Isa Local Government Area.
The government reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, especially in areas facing security challenges. It highlighted ongoing collaboration with:
- Conventional security agencies
- The Sokoto State Community Guard Corps
- Local vigilante groups
Abubakar Bawa also issued a strong warning against the politicisation of security matters. He urged citizens to:
- Fully cooperate with government and security agencies in the fight against banditry.
- Expose informants who may be living within their communities.
- Refrain from spreading unverified rumours, particularly on sensitive security issues, to avoid causing unnecessary panic.
The government's statement aims to provide clarity, reassure the public, and demonstrate proactive steps being taken to ensure community safety.
