The Chairman of Isa Local Government Area in Sokoto State, Sharehu Kamarawa, has condoled with residents of Bargaja village following a recent bandit attack in the area.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Kamarawa described the incident as unfortunate and expressed sympathy with families affected by the attack.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the people of Bargaja village over the recent attack. The pain of the community is deeply felt, and we stand with the affected families during this difficult time,” he said.
Bargaja and several communities in Isa LGA, located along the Sokoto–Zamfara border, have in recent years experienced recurring attacks by armed bandits.
The chairman, however, said security agencies had intensified operations in the area to protect residents and prevent further attacks.
According to him, security operatives had been working for the past six days to repel repeated attempts by bandits to infiltrate communities around the Bargaja axis.
“Our gallant security personnel have been working tirelessly to repel several attempted attacks around Bargaja. Their bravery and commitment have prevented further harm to residents,” he said.
Kamarawa reaffirmed that the government of Ahmed Aliyu remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
He also raised concern over what he described as deliberate misinformation circulating on social media regarding the attack.
“It is unfortunate that some individuals deliberately ignore the efforts of our security personnel and instead choose to exaggerate the situation online. Such misinformation only creates panic and undermines the sacrifices of those working to keep our communities safe,” he said.
The council chairman alleged that some of those spreading such narratives were being sponsored by political actors seeking to destabilise the state.
“These false narratives are being promoted by people with selfish interests, including certain politicians who do not wish to see peace and stability in Sokoto State,” he added.
Addressing allegations circulating online about the alleged mismanagement of security funds in Isa LGA, the chairman described the claims as unfounded and challenged those behind the accusations to present evidence.
“Let anyone making such claims provide credible proof that the council authorised them or anyone else to collect money from residents for security purposes. These allegations are baseless and misleading,” he said.
Kamarawa cited the example of the Tidibale community, where, according to him, a timely warning from the local councillor enabled residents to evacuate safely before a potential attack.
He added that security forces had since established a Forward Operating Base in the area to strengthen surveillance and response.
The chairman urged residents, community leaders and social media users to verify information before sharing it, stressing that unity and cooperation remain critical in the fight against banditry.
“At this critical moment, what Isa LGA and Sokoto State need most is cooperation, vigilance and unity so that we can defeat criminal elements and sustain peace in our communities,” he said.
