The Sokoto State Police Command has denied allegations of secretly arresting and arraigning a woman who allegedly criticized the escalating violence in the state.
In a statement released on Friday, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Ahmad Rufai, addressed the misinformation circulated by Gistcore Media and other social media platforms, clarifying the actual sequence of events.
ASP Rufai explained that the police became aware of reports suggesting that law enforcement covertly detained and prosecuted a woman who had spoken out against insecurity in Sokoto, allegedly in an attempt to embarrass the state governor.
He stated, “These allegations are completely false. To set the record straight, Marafa Yakubu, the Village Head of Sabon Birnin Daji in Wurno Local Government Area, reported a case involving a woman accused of inciting unrest in the community.”
According to the police, the woman, identified as Hamdiyya Sidi, had introduced herself to the village as a representative of a charitable organization aiming to support local women and youths.
However, instead of distributing aid, she reportedly stirred up resentment against the government, prompting the village head to alert community guards, who then handed her over to the police.
Rufai further explained that Ms. Sidi confessed during the investigation and was formally charged within 24 hours for inciting public disturbance, an offense under Nigerian law.
He added, “The Commissioner of Police urges the public to verify information before sharing it, as false reports can disrupt community peace. The command remains dedicated to safeguarding citizens’ rights while fulfilling its duties under the law.”
This statement reaffirms the police’s commitment to transparency and maintaining law and order in Sokoto State.