Gov Aliyu’s administration promotes unity, fairness – Commissioner

The Sokoto State Government’s commitment to inclusive governance and religious tolerance has been described as a national example worthy of emulation by other states.

Dr. Jabir Sani Maihulla, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, made the commendation while praising Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto’s administration for fostering peace, unity, and equitable development across the state.

According to Dr. Maihulla, the governor’s policies have ensured fair distribution of government projects and social programmes without bias or discrimination. “The payment of WAEC and NECO fees for all students, regardless of their state of origin, and empowerment initiatives for the less privileged have fostered a genuine sense of belonging among the people,” he said.

He highlighted the administration’s even spread of infrastructure projects—including roads, healthcare facilities, and mosque renovations—across both rural and urban areas. The Commissioner also credited the government’s proactive crisis management strategy, which involves collaboration between religious leaders and security agencies, for maintaining harmony and preventing conflicts.

Speaking on the activities of the Hisbah Corps, Dr. Maihulla described it as a community-oriented institution focused on moral guidance, education, and reconciliation. He emphasized that Sokoto’s Hisbah operates within the law and prioritizes dialogue over enforcement.

“Our Hisbah is unarmed, well-trained, and deeply rooted in community structures. Their role is primarily to counsel and educate. Enforcement comes only after a clear legal breach and through due process,” he explained.

Dr. Maihulla disclosed that the Hisbah Corps is overseen by a multi-agency committee comprising the Ministry of Justice, the Nigeria Police, the Sultanate Council, and other security agencies—ensuring transparency and accountability.

He noted that recruitment into the corps prioritizes educated and service-oriented individuals, with the initial intake consisting of about 230 personnel. All officers, he said, undergo rigorous training on human rights, due process, and community engagement, often conducted in collaboration with international partners.

Strict legal procedures are also observed before the destruction of seized contraband items, particularly alcohol, while Hisbah officers are strictly prohibited from detaining or physically assaulting suspects under any circumstance.

Dr. Maihulla further revealed that since the relaunch of the Hisbah Corps, no human rights violations or lawsuits have been recorded against it—an achievement he described as evidence of the corps’ professionalism and respect for human rights.

“Peace is the foundation for development. Governor Aliyu’s policies are rooted in fairness, dignity, and the protection of all citizens,” he stated.

The Commissioner reaffirmed that Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration remains committed to promoting unity, transparency, and equal opportunity for all residents, while respecting religious and cultural diversity as part of its drive for sustainable peace and progress in Sokoto State.