The Sokoto State Government has defended its controversial decision to engage in dialogue with repentant bandits, insisting that the move is a strategic effort to end years of deadly attacks and restore peace to the region — not a sign of weakness.
The government’s position follows criticism from a social media commentator, Basharu Altine Guyawa, who questioned the rationale behind opening talks with criminals responsible for widespread killings, displacement, and economic hardship in parts of the state.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Friday, the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Ahmed Aliyu, Colonel Ahmed Usman (retd.), described the criticism as “misinformed” and accused Guyawa of taking a contradictory stance on an issue he once showed willingness to mediate.
“It is worth noting, with some irony, that Mr. Guyawa himself had previously expressed interest in mediating between the state and armed groups,” the statement read.
“It is, therefore, surprising that he now finds fault with the government’s attempt at a peaceful resolution he once supported.”
Col. Usman maintained that Governor Aliyu’s administration is not trading justice for peace, but is rather adopting a pragmatic approach in line with the military’s “stick-and-carrot” strategy — combining force with dialogue.
“Our people in Rabah, Goronyo, Isa, Sabon Birni, and other hotspots are living under the weight of fear, displacement, and hunger,” Usman said.
“Farmers have abandoned their land, economic activities are paralyzed, and food insecurity is worsening across the state. Something must give.”
He explained that while security operations are ongoing in affected areas, the state is also creating a pathway for genuine repentant bandits to lay down arms and undergo supervised reintegration and rehabilitation.
“This is not appeasement. It is strategic reconciliation, designed for long-term stability and development,” the statement emphasized.
The government warned against politicizing efforts aimed at restoring peace and called on critics to engage in constructive discourse rather than public condemnation.
“The challenges before us are grave and demand unity, not division. The people of Sokoto State deserve practical solutions — not rhetoric. That is what Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration is committed to delivering,” Col. Usman concluded.
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