Sokoto’s failing security

Sokoto State, historically known for its religious and cultural significance, now grapples with a profound security crisis. Once a symbol of peace, the state has become a hotspot for violence perpetrated by criminals, bandits, and jihadist groups. The devastating impact is evident in the evacuation of more than 50 villages and the loss of 185 lives between July and September 2026, with over 850 others injured in attacks that have left families and communities shattered.

The financial toll is equally alarming, with millions of naira in ransom payments further impoverishing vulnerable populations, and the psychological scars continue to deepen.

The security threat in Sokoto is multifaceted, involving conventional criminal gangs engaged in kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling, and extortion; radical groups like the Lakurawa faction seeking to impose their interpretation of Islamic law; and transnational organizations such as the Islamic State Sahel Province, known for targeting military and security personnel. Additionally, hybrid networks are emerging, blending criminal activities with extremist ideologies, making the security challenge more intricate.

Banditry has long plagued neighboring states like Zamfara and Katsina, but Sokoto, previously relatively insulated, now faces significant threats. The expansion of criminal and extremist networks is attributed to the fragmentation of security efforts across the North-West. A coordinated strategy involving intelligence sharing, joint operations, and cross-border cooperation could have prevented the spread of threats.

The failure to anticipate and deter the infiltration of these groups by neighboring Kebbi State highlights the shortcomings of the current fragmented approach.

Sokoto's strategic location along the border with Niger Republic, coupled with its connections to other Sahelian countries, facilitates the movement of arms and militant groups. The illegal arms trade, exacerbated by the aftermath of the Libyan conflict, has significantly bolstered the capacity of bandits and extremists to carry out deadly attacks. While border security presents genuine challenges due to Nigeria's extensive borders, it cannot be used as a permanent excuse for inaction.

To effectively combat insecurity, the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, police, military, and local communities must collaborate on a robust monitoring system for border crossings and the disruption of arms and militant movements. This requires improved coordination, accountability, and the use of intelligence-led surveillance.

A comprehensive security strategy should address the underlying conditions that enable criminal groups to operate with impunity, alongside strengthening community-based security structures. Local vigilante groups, though crucial in responding to rural attacks, lack adequate support in terms of equipment, training, and oversight.

Providing them with proper resources and integrating them into a coordinated regional security framework can enhance their effectiveness.

The North-West region needs a unified security network capable of coordinating intelligence and operations across state borders, as criminal activities transcend administrative boundaries. While community-based security initiatives have shown promise, they cannot replace the responsibilities of established security institutions.

Political will, institutional accountability, and a sustained commitment to citizen protection are essential in addressing the complex security challenges facing Sokoto and Nigeria. Transparent investigations into allegations of collusion between political actors, security personnel, traditional rulers, and criminal groups are crucial, along with holding accountable those found guilty.

Addressing the flow of weapons from external sources, such as Libya, is also vital, but it must be coupled with internal reforms to prevent further deterioration of security conditions.