Former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal
Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has called on residents of Sokoto State to remain calm and law-abiding following late-night explosions reported in parts of the state, assuring that authorities are already clarifying the circumstances surrounding the incidents and taking steps to protect innocent lives.
The explosions were reported in Jabo village of Tambuwal Local Government Area in the Sokoto South Senatorial District, as well as Wariyya and Alkasim villages in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto North. The incidents, which occurred hours apart, triggered anxiety among residents after loud blasts rocked the communities.
In a statement personally shared by the former governor, Tambuwal said he was in active engagement with relevant security authorities to obtain full details and ensure that necessary safeguards were observed.
“I have noted the reports concerning an airstrike carried out as part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts through cooperation between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the United States,” the senator stated. “I urge our communities to remain calm and law-abiding as relevant authorities clarify the circumstances surrounding the operation.”
Reassuring his constituents in Sokoto South, Tambuwal added: “I wish to assure the people of Sokoto South that I am in active talks with relevant security authorities to obtain full details and ensure that all necessary safeguards are upheld.”
He emphasized that counterterrorism operations are aimed strictly at criminal and terrorist elements, not innocent citizens who are already victims of insecurity.
“It is important to reassure the public that counterterrorism operations are targeted at criminal and terrorist elements who threaten our collective safety, and not at innocent civilians who are themselves victims of insecurity,” he said. “The protection of civilian lives remains paramount and central to all legitimate security operations.”
Commending the efforts of Nigerian security agencies, Tambuwal appealed for public support and cooperation to bring lasting peace to the state.
“I commend the courage and professionalism of our military and security forces, who continue to work tirelessly, often in collaboration with international partners, to confront terrorism and banditry under extremely challenging conditions,” he noted. “Their sacrifice and commitment to restoring peace and stability deserve our full support and cooperation.”
He also urged community leaders, traditional rulers and residents to work closely with security agencies by sharing credible information and resisting the spread of misinformation capable of heightening fear or tension.
“Together, through unity, vigilance, and support for lawful security efforts, we will overcome the forces of terror and secure lasting peace for Sokoto State and Nigeria at large,” Tambuwal said.
Residents of Jabo village confirmed that the explosion, which occurred late at night, sent shockwaves across the community, leaving many unable to sleep, although no casualties were recorded.
In Tangaza Local Government Area, where explosions were reported in Wariyya and Alkasim villages, residents described the experience as deeply unsettling. Some locals, however, said the development would be welcomed if it successfully dislodged bandits who have long occupied the rocky areas around the communities.
Speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, residents said insecurity had overwhelmed their villages for years, with armed groups using the terrain as hideouts. They expressed hope that security operations would eliminate the criminals without harming innocent villagers.
They also called for improved surveillance, including the use of drones and increased physical presence of security personnel, to prevent civilian casualties and ensure sustained peace in the affected areas.
