The Sokoto State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has warned against the politicisation of security, saying security is a shared responsibility and must be treated as such.

The PDP gave the warning in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Hassan Sahabi Sanyinnawal, in reaction to a recent statement by Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd), Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security Matters.

Sanyinnawal said that when leadership used its platform to undermine other sincere efforts, it not only weakened the fight against insecurity but also sent a demoralizing signal to the people they were meant to protect.

He said time for political squabble was over in Sokoto, adding that “The people of Sokoto are not interested in political squabble but safety in their homes, protection for their families, and the restoration of normal life.

“The citizens are watching as leaders trade accusations and warnings while villages are being attacked, livelihoods destroyed, and futures shattered courtesy of banditry.

“Sokoto State is in a critical moment for reflection. It is time for the government to rise above politics and embrace a spirit of collective action. Government cannot overcome the security crisis alone. Only through synergy—where all actors, regardless of political affiliation, work together—can real, lasting solutions be found.”

The PDP claimed that the Sokoto State government’s action seemed to be outlawing efforts of well-meaning citizens in complementing the security agencies in combating the menace of banditry in the state.

It could be recalled that the Sokoto State government had issued a stern warning to political actors in the state against taking unauthorised actions in the name of addressing insecurity, describing such moves as dangerous and counterproductive.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu on Security Matters, the government expressed concern over a recent attempt by a serving senator to deploy members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) from Borno without obtaining prior approval from relevant authorities.

“While we acknowledge that the fight against insecurity is a collective responsibility, resorting to self-help without the knowledge or consent of the government can do more harm than good,” the statement read.

Col. Usman emphasised that the state government welcomed any initiative aimed at promoting peace and stability, provided such efforts follow established procedures and are aligned with the state’s security architecture.

“The issue of security is too sensitive to be politicised or manipulated for cheap political gains. No individual has the authority to recruit Yansakai or deploy armed personnel under any guise without government approval. Doing so not only undermines the rule of law but also suggests a breakdown of governmental authority,” the statement added.