Crime

Matawalle Urges Sokoto Residents to Report Jobless Individuals Living Extravagantly; Give Reasons

Published by Tope Fakinlede on September 4th, 2024.

Matawalle Urges Sokoto Residents to Report Jobless Individuals Living Extravagantly; Give Reasons

Bello Matawalle, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, has called on Sokoto State residents to report anyone who is unemployed yet displaying a lavish lifestyle. Speaking at a meeting with stakeholders at the Sokoto State Governor’s office, Matawalle suggested that such individuals might be providing information to bandits who are contributing to the region’s instability.

Matawalle, accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa at the behest of President Bola Tinubu, underscored the critical role of community involvement in combating banditry in Northern Nigeria. He emphasized that effective security operations depend significantly on intelligence from local communities.

He stated:

“Just as we did during my tenure as governor of Zamfara State, I urge the residents of Sokoto to share any relevant information with security agencies. If you notice someone who is not employed but is leading a lavish lifestyle, changing cars frequently, or spending money excessively, please report them. Such individuals may be serving as informants for bandits.”

Matawalle also announced the recruitment of 200 individuals from each of Sokoto’s 23 local governments to join the Sokoto Community Guard Corps, aimed at supporting existing security efforts.

He assured that significant measures are being taken to address security issues, adding, “While security matters are not for public discussion, rest assured that we are actively working to ensure the safety of the state. With your support and our ongoing efforts, we are committed to restoring peace and security in Sokoto.”