Gobir, who is also a member of the Niger Delta Development Commission, said the continued attacks on rural communities had become a serious threat to lives, farming, livelihoods and economic activity across the state. He made the call in a statement on Tuesday while reacting to renewed security operations in Sokoto East and other vulnerable areas.
The former lawmaker commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for intensifying operations against criminal groups. He specifically acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Community Guards Corps.
Gobir said the deployment of additional security personnel and military equipment to vulnerable areas showed a determination to reclaim communities affected by terrorism and banditry. He expressed confidence that maintaining pressure on the criminal groups could weaken their ability to operate and help restore confidence among residents of communities such as Sabon Birni and Isa.
He nevertheless stressed that military operations alone would not be enough to end the insecurity. According to him, effective intelligence gathering and cooperation between communities and security agencies would be essential to identifying criminal hideouts, tracking movements and preventing planned attacks.
Gobir therefore urged residents to provide security agencies with credible and timely information about suspicious movements, criminal camps and other activities that could assist ongoing operations. He also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, community heads and youth organisations to strengthen cooperation with security personnel.
The former senator issued a warning to individuals who allegedly provide terrorists and bandits with financing, shelter, information or logistical assistance. He particularly criticised those who disclose the movements of security personnel to criminal groups, saying such actions could expose officers and entire communities to further attacks.
His comments come as security challenges continue to affect parts of Sokoto State. Recent military operations have included engagements with suspected Lakurawa terrorists and bandits, with troops reporting the rescue of kidnapped farmers and the disruption of planned attacks in some communities.
The security situation remains serious, with recent attacks in parts of Sokoto resulting in deaths, injuries, abductions and cattle rustling. Security monitoring data also indicates that banditry remains one of the state's most significant security threats in 2026.
For communities affected by the violence, the restoration of security is closely connected to their ability to return to farming, trading and other economic activities. Gobir said people should not be forced to abandon their homes, farms and markets because of fear, arguing that lasting peace would provide the foundation for economic recovery and development.
The former senator's appeal ultimately places responsibility on both security agencies and local communities. While sustained military pressure may be necessary to weaken armed groups, intelligence sharing and public cooperation could determine how effectively security forces identify criminal networks and prevent them from rebuilding their operations.
Gobir urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while supporting legitimate security efforts, expressing optimism that stronger coordination, intelligence gathering and sustained operations could help restore peace across Sokoto State.
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