KEBBI IS NOT UNDER SIEGE: GOVERNOR NASIR IDRIS HAS A CLEAR SECURITY PLAN
By:
Yahaya Sarki
SA Media and Publicity to the Kebbi State Governor
28/6/2026
The article titled “Kebbi Under Siege: A Governor Without a Plan,” published on 23 June 2026 by Jikan Waziri, is a clear demonstration of how political bias can overshadow facts and objective reasoning. While security concerns deserve serious attention, it is equally important that public commentary reflects reality rather than political sentiments disguised as analysis.
To begin with, the assertion that Kebbi State is under siege is an exaggeration unsupported by facts. No responsible government will deny the existence of security challenges, but it is dishonest to portray the entire state as having collapsed under criminal control. Across the state, schools are functioning, markets are operating, farming activities continue, and government institutions remain active. These realities do not support the alarmist picture painted by the writer.
More disturbing is the claim that Governor Nasir Idris has no security plan. Nothing could be further from the truth. Since assuming office, the Governor has consistently demonstrated that security is one of the top priorities of his administration.
One of the most visible examples is the unprecedented logistical support provided to security agencies operating in the state. The administration has supplied well over 100 vehicles to various security formations to enhance mobility, surveillance, and rapid response capabilities.
In addition, more than 3,000 motorcycles have been distributed to vigilante groups and other community-based security outfits to improve access to difficult terrains often exploited by criminal elements.
The government has also recruited, trained, and integrated over 3,000 local vigilantes into the state’s broader security architecture. This initiative has strengthened intelligence gathering and improved cooperation between communities and conventional security agencies.
Recognizing the importance of morale in security operations, Governor Nasir Idris has consistently improved the welfare of security personnel and volunteers working tirelessly to protect lives and property across the state.
The administration has also facilitated the deployment of armoured personnel carriers and other operational assets through sustained engagement with military and police authorities in Abuja. Such efforts require planning, commitment, and strategic thinking—not the indifference alleged by the writer.
The reactivation of Local Government Security Committees is another important initiative undertaken by the administration. These committees provide platforms for intelligence sharing, conflict resolution, and coordinated responses to emerging threats at the grassroots level.
The Governor also holds regular meetings with heads of security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to review the security situation and develop appropriate responses. These are not media events but working sessions focused on improving safety across the state.
It is important to note that security operations involve sensitive information. No responsible government will publicly disclose every strategy, deployment plan, or operational framework. Therefore, the argument that there is no security plan simply because every detail is not in the public domain is both illogical and uninformed.
Equally false is the allegation that the Governor is unconcerned about victims of insecurity. He has consistently demonstrated compassion and empathy towards affected communities and families. Whenever unfortunate incidents occur, he visits victims where possible, consoles bereaved families, provides relief materials, and extends financial assistance to ease their hardships. These actions reflect leadership with a human face.
A notable example was the abduction of the Maga schoolgirls in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area. Through sustained engagement and collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies, Governor Nasir Idris played a significant role in the efforts that eventually secured their freedom. The swift release of the abducted girls stands as a testament to the administration’s commitment to protecting its citizens and its determination to respond decisively to security incidents.
To suggest that the government merely issues press statements while citizens suffer is therefore a deliberate distortion of facts intended to misinform the public and create unnecessary distrust between the people and their government.
The writer’s comments regarding the Governor’s travels are equally misleading. Most of the Governor’s trips outside the state are official engagements aimed at attracting investment, securing partnerships, advancing developmental projects, and strengthening security collaboration with federal authorities. Many of his visits to Abuja are directly connected to meetings with security chiefs and relevant institutions whose support is critical to addressing security challenges in Kebbi State.
Interestingly, the true motive behind the article becomes apparent in its concluding paragraphs, where the writer openly campaigns for the governorship ambition of former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, under the platform of the ADC.
This revelation removes any doubt about the partisan nature of the publication. What was presented as a security analysis ultimately turned into a political advertisement. The article was less about the welfare of Kebbi citizens and more about promoting a preferred political candidate while demonising the incumbent Governor.
The people of Kebbi are intelligent enough to distinguish between constructive criticism and politically motivated propaganda. Genuine concern for security should encourage unity and support for ongoing efforts rather than the spread of exaggerated narratives capable of creating panic.
Security challenges are, unfortunately, not unique to Kebbi State. Virtually every state in Nigeria is confronting one form of security threat or another. What matters is the commitment of leadership to addressing those challenges.
Governor Nasir Idris has repeatedly demonstrated that commitment through investment, collaboration, innovation, and direct support for security agencies and affected communities. While challenges remain, it is unfair and inaccurate to suggest that he lacks a plan or concern for the safety of his people.
The facts are clear: Kebbi State is not under siege; Governor Nasir Idris is not indifferent to the plight of victims; and his administration has implemented numerous security measures aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
Political ambitions should never be allowed to overshadow truth, fairness, and our collective responsibility to build a safer Kebbi State for all.
