The Kebbi State Government has warned that politically motivated violence and thuggery could undermine ongoing development efforts across the state, following the unrest reported in Jega.
The government, in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to Governor Nasir Idris on Communication and Strategy, Abdulahi Idris Zuru, said no political interest should be allowed to jeopardise lives, property or projects being executed for the benefit of residents.
It therefore directed that the circumstances surrounding the Jega incident be thoroughly investigated, with anyone found responsible prosecuted regardless of political affiliation, position or status.
The government said the development was particularly disturbing because of the political dimension attributed to the incident, stressing that disagreements arising from campaigns and political activities must be settled through dialogue and lawful democratic processes.
“Political differences should be resolved through dialogue, lawful democratic processes, and peaceful engagement rather than confrontation,” the statement said.
According to the government, the existence of security challenges across the country should not be used as justification for attacks on individuals, destruction of property or confrontation between political groups.
It consequently appealed to political parties, their supporters, traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders to avoid inflammatory statements and actions capable of aggravating tensions as political activities intensify.
The government also cautioned that the state could not afford to allow political violence to destroy the socio-economic gains and development projects being pursued across Kebbi.
It said no individual, group or organisation had the right to claim a monopoly of violence, urging citizens to reject political thuggery and protect the peace required for communities to benefit from government programmes.
The administration commended security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders for their efforts to restore calm in Jega, while calling for a transparent investigation that would establish what happened and identify those responsible.
The government also sympathised with residents who suffered losses during the incident and assured them that their concerns would be brought to the attention of the appropriate authorities.
Zuru said the administration remained committed to implementing its development programmes while working with security agencies and communities to maintain the stability necessary for economic and social progress.
He further appealed to religious and community leaders to intensify efforts to promote peaceful coexistence among Kebbi’s diverse communities and encourage citizens to participate in politics without resorting to violence.
The latest warning comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 elections, with recent political exchanges in Kebbi increasingly focusing on competing claims over governance, security and the direction of the state.
