Former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal has urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding following US military airstrikes in the state, which sparked panic in some communities.
The strikes, carried out on Thursday night in Jabo town, Tambuwal Local Government Area, were part of a broader US operation targeting terrorist activities in Nigeria.
The announcement of the operation by former US President Donald Trump had raised concerns among locals due to the sudden nature of the strikes.
In a statement, Tambuwal praised the collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in counterterrorism efforts and reassured citizens that the operations were focused solely on criminal and terrorist elements, not innocent civilians.
“I have noted reports concerning the airstrike as part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts through cooperation between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the United States,” Tambuwal said. “I urge our communities to remain calm and law-abiding as relevant authorities clarify the circumstances surrounding the operation.”
The former governor added that he was in active discussions with security authorities to obtain full details and ensure that all necessary safeguards were in place.
“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.”
Tambuwal also commended the professionalism and courage of Nigerian military and security forces, noting their ongoing collaboration with international partners to tackle terrorism and banditry under challenging conditions.
He further appealed to community leaders and residents to work closely with security agencies, provide credible information, and resist misinformation that could increase 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 concluded.
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