The Isa and Sabon Birni Elders Movement in Sokoto State has praised the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for his role in curbing violence and insecurity in the region.
The commendation followed the minister’s recent visit to Isa, Goronyo and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas in the state, as part of efforts to ensure that insecurity becomes a thing of the past.
The group acknowledged that the death of the notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu has led to a significant decline in banditry in Isa Local Government Area.
In a statement signed by the group’s convener, Mansur Isa, and made available to journalists on Thursday, the elders expressed their gratitude for the improved security situation, noting that for the first time in years, residents can now “sleep with both eyes closed.”
“The fear and uncertainty that once plagued our lives have diminished, and we are now able to resume our daily activities without the looming threat of insecurity,” Isa said.
He added that the sharp reduction in attacks has brought hope and optimism to the people of Isa and its surroundings.
The elders commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of Matawalle as Minister of State for Defence, describing it as a “wise and timely decision.”
They also highlighted Matawalle’s recent visits to critical areas previously controlled by bandits, including the Gundumi road in Isa and Sabon Birni.
The group called on the federal government to reinstate a military camp in Kagara, recalling that its presence had previously brought relative peace to the area. They believe the return of the camp would help sustain the recent gains in security.
“Before the current administration, our town and several surrounding communities were under the control of bandits,” Isa added.
“Today, thanks to the leadership of President Tinubu and Minister Matawalle, we can safely return to our farms and live our lives with a renewed sense of peace.”