Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto announced on Friday, July 26, that Sokoto State will not participate in the proposed national protest against the current economic hardships. Various stakeholders, including religious leaders, community heads, students, labor organizations, and civil society groups, unanimously opposed the protest, citing Islamic teachings that discourage such actions.
Prominent figures such as Professor A.A. Yagawal and Sheikh Abubakar Jibrin emphasized that protests could inflict further pain on others and stressed the need for leaders to address issues like insecurity and the high cost of living. They argued that constructive solutions should be sought instead of disruptive actions.
Governor Sokoto expressed concerns that the protest could provoke significant setbacks and destruction. Following an interactive session with key stakeholders, including Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko and Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, he labeled the protest as harmful to national interest, security, and peaceful coexistence.
During the session, Governor Sokoto praised President Bola Tinubu's efforts to alleviate the current hardships, highlighting initiatives like student loan schemes, local government autonomy, and youth and women empowerment programs. He also outlined the state's measures to support its citizens, including financial aid for traders, empowerment programs for youth and women, and enhancements to the state transport service.
