Former Governor of Sokoto State, Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has appealed for peace and calm among communities affected by the recent airstrikes reportedly carried out by the United States in collaboration with Nigerian authorities in parts of the state.
The appeal followed reports of panic in Jabo town, Tambuwal Local Government Area, where residents were said to have been thrown into confusion on Thursday night after the military operation.
The airstrikes were reportedly part of a broader counterterrorism campaign announced by former United States President, Donald Trump, aimed at neutralising terrorist groups responsible for insecurity in Nigeria.
Tambuwal welcomed the cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism in the North, describing it as a necessary step towards restoring peace and stability in the region.
In a statement, the former governor said he had taken note of reports concerning the airstrike conducted under the ongoing counterterrorism collaboration between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the United States.
He urged residents of affected communities to remain calm and law-abiding while relevant authorities work to clarify the circumstances surrounding the operation.
Tambuwal assured the people of Sokoto South that he was actively engaging with security agencies to obtain full details of the incident and to ensure that all necessary safeguards were observed.
He stressed that counterterrorism operations are targeted at criminal and terrorist elements threatening public safety, not innocent civilians who are themselves victims of insecurity, adding that the protection of civilian lives remains central to all legitimate security actions.
The former governor also commended the courage and professionalism of Nigerian military and security personnel, noting that they continue to work tirelessly, often in collaboration with international partners, under difficult conditions to combat terrorism and banditry.
According to him, their sacrifices and commitment to restoring peace deserve the full support and cooperation of the public.
Tambuwal further called on community leaders, traditional institutions and residents to work closely with security agencies by sharing credible information and resisting misinformation capable of heightening fear or tension.
He urged unity, vigilance and support for lawful security efforts, expressing confidence that collective resolve would help defeat terrorism and secure lasting peace in Sokoto State and across Nigeria.