Following a series of armed attacks that occurred in Plateau State between December 23 and 25, claiming over 150 people’s lives, Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State officially endorsed the legislation that establishes the Sokoto Community Guard Corps on Thursday.
The state’s House of Assembly had previously granted approval for the governor’s proposal on December 21 to establish this community guard corps.
During the bill signing ceremony at the Government House, the governor emphasized that his administration conceived the idea to complement the security initiatives of Bola Tinubu-led government, aiming to ensure ample security for the citizens.
He clarified that the establishment of the Sokoto Community Guard Corps is not intended to compete with or challenge the role of the police.
Aliyu said, “The signing into law of this Sokoto Community Guard Corps is a very important milestone in the lives of this administration.
“As we are all aware, Sokoto State is facing insecurity, especially banditry, thereby destabilising the peaceful nature the state is known for.
“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.
“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 urged security agencies to support the community in safeguarding crops, emphasizing their crucial role in promoting a secure state.
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The governor added, “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.
“Let me, at this junction, reiterate our administration’s commitment in the area of security to ensure the protection of lives and property of the people of the state.”