The Kebbi State Police Command has dismissed as false and misleading the recent statement credited to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kebbi State Branch, which claimed that nine local government areas in the state were ungovernable and called for a boycott of courts.
In a swift response, the Command described the claim as grossly irresponsible, stressing that no part of Kebbi State is inaccessible to law enforcement or judicial authorities. It said the misleading statement could cause public panic and undermine ongoing security efforts across the state.
A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, clarified that the reported abduction of a legal practitioner, Barrister Isiaku Danjuma, did not occur in Kebbi State as alleged but in Ibeto, Niger State.
According to the Command, the victim, who hails from Niger State but practices law in Kebbi, had travelled from Niger to Abuja and later joined a government-provided bus for attendees of the investiture ceremony of Barrister Hudu Lawan, SAN. On the return trip, he alighted at Kontagora and proceeded to Ibeto, where he was abducted.
The Police Command emphasized that while it sympathizes with the victim and his family, issuing such sweeping and unverified statements by a professional body without engaging security agencies was both “misguided and counterproductive.” It warned that such remarks could embolden criminal elements and disrupt the peace currently enjoyed in the state.
Commissioner of Police Bello M. Sani reassured residents that Kebbi State remains safe and secure, urging citizens to go about their lawful activities without fear. He called for public support through credible intelligence sharing to aid the Police in ongoing security operations.
“The Kebbi State Police Command remains fully committed to protecting lives and property, maintaining peace, and ensuring that all criminal elements are apprehended and brought to justice,” the statement read.
The Command also appealed for constructive engagement and collaboration with professional associations, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen the fight against crime in the state.
While condemning the abduction of Barrister Danjuma, the Command called on his abductors to release him immediately and unconditionally, assuring that all efforts were ongoing to ensure his safe return.