In an effort to combat the rising insecurity in Sokoto State, the government has approved the establishment of the Sokoto Community Guard Corps. The bill sanctioning the formation of this security group was signed into law by the state’s governor, Ahmed Aliyu, on December 28.
The Sokoto State House of Assembly had previously given their approval for the governor’s proposal to set up community guards on December 21.
During the bill signing ceremony at the Government House, Governor Aliyu expressed that the initiative was conceived to bolster the security measures put in place by the administration led by Bola Tinubu. He emphasized that the corps was not intended to compete with the police force.
He stated, “The signing into law of this Sokoto Community Guard Corps is a very important milestone in the lives of this administration.”
He acknowledged the state’s struggle with insecurity, particularly banditry, which has disrupted the peace the state is renowned for. He said, “Indeed, we pledge to do everything humanly possible to maintain peace and security in the state. The creation of this security guard corps is geared towards supplementing the efforts of conventional security outfits to protect the lives and property of the people, especially at the grassroots.”
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He clarified, “Let me say here clearly that the community guard corps is not Sokoto police; it is not a force created by the Sokoto State government.”
He called on security agencies to collaborate with the community guard corps, emphasizing that they were allies, not competitors. He said, “Security agencies, please you should know that they are not your rivals; they are there to assist you, to give you all necessary support and information from their localities.”
He concluded by reaffirming his administration’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the state’s residents.