Sokoto State’s inclusive approach to governance and religious tolerance has been hailed as a national model worthy of emulation by other states.
The Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Sani Maihulla, said the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu has created a conducive atmosphere for peace and unity through equitable policies and inclusive development.
“Fair distribution of government projects, neutral policy decisions, and social programmes — such as the payment of WAEC and NECO fees for all students regardless of state of origin, and empowerment programmes for the poor — have fostered a real sense of belonging,” Maihulla said.
He praised the governor’s commitment to delivering infrastructure and social services across all communities, noting that roads, healthcare facilities, and mosque renovations have been implemented in both urban and rural areas without bias.
The commissioner also highlighted proactive crisis-response coordination involving religious leaders and security agencies, which has been critical in de-escalating tensions before they arise.
He described the Hisbah Corps as a community-focused moral guidance body that prioritizes education, reconciliation, and legal compliance — an approach he said has been key to the success of the Aliyu administration.
“Our Hisbah is unarmed, well-trained, and embedded within community structures. Their work is to counsel and educate. Enforcement is only applied after a clear legal breach and due process have been followed,” Maihulla explained.
The corps is supervised by a multi-agency oversight committee that includes the Ministry of Justice, the Nigeria Police, the Sultanate Council, and other security agencies — ensuring checks, transparency, and accountability.
Recruitment into the agency prioritizes educated, service-oriented individuals, with the first cohort comprising about 230 personnel who underwent mandatory training on human rights, due process, and community engagement in collaboration with international partners.
He added that strict legal protocols are followed before the destruction of seized contraband, especially alcohol, and that Hisbah officers are prohibited from detaining or assaulting suspects under any circumstances.
According to the commissioner, since the corps’ relaunch, no human rights litigation has been recorded against it.
“Peace is the foundation for development. Governor Aliyu’s policies are rooted in fairness, dignity, and the protection of all citizens,” he said, commending the administration for promoting unity, equity, and progress across the state.