The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Sokoto, Shamsudden Haido, has called on the Sokoto government to prioritise tackling security challenges over relief donations.

Mr Haido made the call on Tuesday in a statement he signed in response to Deputy Governor Idris Gobir’s visit to displaced persons in the Tureta local council.

The victims were from Dangulbi and surrounding communities in Tureta LGA who were forced to flee their homes following attacks by armed bandits.

Mr Haido insisted that residents of the state needed protection from persistent bandit attacks more than food handouts.

He expressed concern over the worsening security situation in some parts of Sokoto State, particularly in rural communities, where residents continue to face threats to their lives, livelihoods, and properties.

According to him, while humanitarian assistance such as rice and cash donations may provide temporary relief to victims, the long-term solution lies in restoring security and ensuring that citizens can return safely to their communities and resume their normal lives.

“The people of Sokoto need security more than they need money and bags of rice. What our people are asking for is protection. They want to sleep with their eyes closed, cultivate their farms without fear, and move freely within their communities,” he said.

Mr Haido noted that the growing number of internally displaced persons across parts of the state reflected the urgent need for stronger security measures and a more coordinated response to the activities of bandits and other criminal elements.

The politician lamented the hardship being faced by displaced families, many of whom have lost homes, farmlands, livestock, and other means of livelihood as a result of repeated attacks.

He added that continued dependence on relief materials would not solve the underlying challenges confronting affected communities.

The NDC candidate urged the state government to strengthen collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, and local vigilante groups to improve intelligence gathering and better protect vulnerable communities.

He further called for increased investment in security infrastructure, rapid response mechanisms, and support for victims of violence to facilitate their safe return and reintegration into their communities.

Mr Haido also extended his condolences to families who lost loved ones during the attacks and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured. He assured displaced persons that their plight would remain a priority in his political engagements and advocacy efforts. 

(NAN)