The Sokoto State Government has disbursed N293 million and 1,540 bags of assorted grains to victims of recent banditry and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Isa and Sabon Birni local government areas.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu announced the intervention during a condolence visit to the affected communities, where he personally presented cash and food support to bereaved families and displaced households.
In Isa LGA, 65 families of deceased victims received N2 million each and five bags of rice, while five injured persons got N250,000 and three bags of rice apiece.
The governor also directed the distribution of N20 million and 1,200 bags of assorted grains to IDPs, bringing the total support in Isa to N151.25 million and 1,240 bags of food.
In Sabon Birni LGA, a similar package was rolled out. Sixty-one bereaved families received N2 million and five bags of rice each, while displaced residents shared N20 million and 1,200 bags of food items. In all, N122 million and 1,300 bags of food were distributed in the area.
Aliyu warned against informants aiding bandits, describing them as the “fuel” behind kidnappings and violent attacks.
He disclosed plans to transmit a bill to the State House of Assembly prescribing severe penalties for informants.
“Informants will no longer have a place in our dear state. I therefore call on well-meaning citizens, especially in rural areas, to assist us with relevant information on suspicious movements or strange faces in your communities,” the governor said.
He also highlighted the government’s ongoing support to security agencies, including the distribution of over 180 patrol vehicles, restoration of allowances for personnel, operational backing for the Nigerian Air Force Base in Sokoto, and the construction of a military base in Illela LGA.
The governor urged residents to complement the government’s efforts with prayers for divine intervention to restore peace.
Chairmen of Isa and Sabon Birni LGAs, Sharifu Abubakar Kamarawa and Hon. Ayuba Hashimu, commended the intervention and pledged their support for the administration’s peace and development drive.
