Tambuwal urges Tinubu to prioritise security over politics

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By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

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Former Governor of Sokoto State and Senator representing Sokoto South Senatorial District, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritise addressing Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, warning that sustainable development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and violence.

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Tambuwal made the call on Thursday during a sympathy visit to communities in Bodinga Local Government Area of Sokoto State affected by recent bandit attacks, where he met with victims and displaced families.

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He expressed concern over the persistent insecurity in Sokoto State and other parts of the country, describing the attacks as a national tragedy requiring urgent government intervention.

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Addressing residents, community leaders and displaced persons, Tambuwal said the protection of lives and property remains the government’s primary constitutional responsibility and should take precedence over political activities.

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“We are here in Bodinga Local Government Area to commiserate with the people over the recent attacks by bandits. We are deeply concerned about what is happening here, across Sokoto State and indeed the entire country,” he said.

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The senator noted that while political activities are part of democratic governance, the worsening security situation demands the full attention of the Federal Government and security agencies.

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He urged the Federal Government to focus on improving security, saying citizens can only benefit fully from infrastructure and economic programmes when their safety is guaranteed.

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Tambuwal also renewed his support for the establishment of state police, describing it as a practical measure that could strengthen grassroots security architecture and improve intelligence gathering.

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He acknowledged concerns about the possible misuse of state police but maintained that Nigeria’s security challenges require the exploration of all legitimate measures to safeguard lives and property.

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The former governor recalled that he had consistently advocated security reforms since his time in the House of Representatives, stressing the need for innovative approaches to tackle terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes.

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Reflecting on recent attacks in parts of Sokoto State, including Tureta Local Government Area, Tambuwal extended condolences to bereaved families and prayed for lasting peace across the state.

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As part of efforts to support victims, he announced a donation of ₦10 million to displaced families in Bodinga and another ₦10 million to victims in Tureta, bringing his total humanitarian support to ₦20 million.

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He also called on all levels of government, security agencies, humanitarian organisations and community leaders to work together to address insecurity and provide relief for affected communities.

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