Former Governor of Sokoto State and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has urged residents of the state to remain calm following reports of a United States airstrike carried out as part of ongoing counterterrorism operations in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Tambuwal made the call in a statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, amid growing public concern over the circumstances surrounding the reported military action.
“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,” Tambuwal said. “I urge our communities to remain calm and law-abiding as relevant authorities clarify the circumstances surrounding the operation.”
The senator assured residents of Sokoto South that he is engaging directly with relevant security authorities to obtain comprehensive details of the operation and to ensure that all necessary safeguards were observed.
“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 stated.
Tambuwal stressed that counterterrorism operations are designed to target criminal and terrorist elements threatening public safety, not innocent civilians who are often 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,” he said, adding that the protection of civilian lives remains paramount in all legitimate security engagements.
He also commended the Nigerian military and security agencies for their courage and professionalism, noting that they continue to operate under extremely challenging conditions, sometimes in collaboration with international partners.
“Their sacrifice and commitment to restoring peace and stability deserve our full support and cooperation,” Tambuwal said.
The former governor further appealed to community leaders, traditional institutions, and residents to work closely with security agencies by providing credible information and resisting the spread of misinformation that could fuel fear or tension.
According to him, unity, vigilance, and public support for lawful security efforts are essential to defeating terrorism and banditry in Sokoto State and across Nigeria.
“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 added.