By Tunde Emmanuel
The Chairman of Isa Local Government Area, Sharehu Abubakar Kamarawa, has raised concerns over the circulation of false narratives online which he said are amplifying fear and anxiety among residents of communities in the area.
Kamarawa made the remarks while reacting to media reports suggesting a mass exodus of residents from Kargaja Village following a recent bandits’ attack.
The council chairman described the viral social media posts as a clear exaggeration of the actual situation on the ground, stressing that such narratives are capable of creating unnecessary panic within the community.
According to him, individuals spreading the misinformation are doing so for selfish reasons, with the intention of instigating chaos and fear among residents.
He further alleged that some of those promoting the false narratives may be sponsored by certain politicians who are not interested in seeing peace and stability in Sokoto State.
Kamarawa cautioned against the misuse of social media for political propaganda or the spread of unverified information, noting that such actions could embolden criminal elements and undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace in the area.
Reacting to allegations circulating online regarding the alleged mismanagement of security funds in Isa Local Government Area, the chairman dismissed the claims as baseless and misleading.
He challenged the individual making the accusation to provide credible evidence that either he or the local government council authorised anyone to collect money from residents for security purposes.
Kamarawa also extended condolences to residents of Bargaja Village following the recent attack in the community.
He reaffirmed that the Sokoto State Government, under the leadership of Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, remains committed to protecting the lives and property of citizens.
The chairman assured residents that security agencies are working tirelessly to safeguard communities across the local government area.
He disclosed that security operatives have, for the past six days, been repelling repeated attack attempts by bandits around the Bargaja axis.
According to him, the efforts of the security personnel have played a crucial role in preventing further harm to residents.
Kamarawa also cited Tidibale Community as an example of effective community vigilance, explaining that a timely alert by the local councillor enabled residents to evacuate safely before a potential attack.
He added that security operatives have since established a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in the area and are continuing operations to protect the community.
The chairman therefore called on residents, community leaders and social media users to avoid spreading false or sensational information capable of inciting panic or obstructing the efforts of security agencies.
He emphasised that cooperation, vigilance and unity among citizens remain critical in the fight against criminal elements and in sustaining peace across the state.
