RIGHT OF REPLY:-Kebbi People Deserve Security, Not Assurances: Government Must Deliver Results Instead of Denials.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline Northern Bureau Chief
July 26th, 2026.
The attention of the Chairman of Kebbi Concerned Citizens has been drawn to the statement issued by the Kebbi State Government dismissing reports and concerns over the worsening security situation in parts of the state. While the government is entitled to defend its record, it must also acknowledge the legitimate concerns of citizens who continue to live in fear.
The government’s statement is long on promises but, in our view, short on convincing evidence that the security challenges confronting many communities are being effectively addressed. The daily experiences and concerns expressed by many residents cannot simply be dismissed as opposition propaganda or political sensationalism. The safety of human lives is too important to be reduced to political rhetoric.
- Advertisement -
No responsible citizen expects the government to disclose classified security strategies or operational intelligence. However, the Constitution places a clear responsibility on every government to protect the lives and property of its citizens. When communities continue to experience attacks, displacement, fear, and economic hardship, the people have every right to ask hard questions and demand better outcomes.
The Chairman of Kebbi Concerned Citizens wishes to state clearly that the association will not accept attempts by government agents or political loyalists to defend perceived shortcomings on security through media campaigns while many citizens continue to express concerns about their safety..
The government itself must take responsibility and demonstrate, through concrete and measurable actions, that it is fulfilling its constitutional obligation.
The people of Kebbi State do not need repeated assurances; they need to see improved security on their roads, in their villages, on their farms, and in their communities. Farmers should be able to cultivate their lands without fear. Traders should be able to conduct business safely. Families should be able to sleep peacefully without the fear of attacks.
Rather than dismissing criticism, the Kebbi State Government should listen to the voices of the people, strengthen cooperation with security agencies, provide adequate support to affected communities, and implement practical measures capable of restoring public confidence.
As a democratic society, the people of Kebbi State will ultimately judge the performance of every government at the ballot box. Citizens are entitled to make their voting decisions based on their own assessment of issues that affect their lives, including security, governance, accountability, and the protection of lives and property.
Kebbi Concerned Citizens therefore calls on the Kebbi State Government to move beyond public statements and focus on achieving tangible results that restore peace, security, and confidence across the state. The protection of lives and property is not a political favour—it is the government’s foremost constitutional responsibility.
Signed:
Chairman
Kebbi Concerned Citizens
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER 26TH JULY)
