Sokoto State’s inclusive approach to governance and religious tolerance has been hailed as a national model worthy of emulation by other states.
The commendation was made by Dr. Jabir Sani Maihulla, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, who credited the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto with fostering a climate of 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, empowerment programmes for the poor have all fostered a real sense of belonging,” said Dr. Maihulla.
Dr. Maihulla 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. He also highlighted the role of proactive crisis-response coordination involving religious leaders and security agencies, which has been critical in de-escalating tensions before they ever arise.
Speaking on the Hisbah Corps, the Commissioner described it as a community-focused moral guidance body that operates with an emphasis on education, reconciliation, and legal compliance- an approach he credited as a key factor in the success of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s 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,” Dr. Maihulla stated.
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 which has ensured checks, transparency, and accountability.
He further disclosed that recruitment into the agency prioritizes educated, service-oriented individuals, with the first cohort comprising approximately 230 personnel. That all officers undergo mandatory training on human rights, due process, and community engagement, often in collaboration with international partners. That strict legal protocols are also followed before the destruction of seized contrabands especially alcohol. And that Hisbah officers are prohibited from detaining suspects or inflicting physical punishment on suspects no matter the provocation.
According to the Commissioner, since the corps’ relaunch, no human rights litigation has been recorded against the Sokoto Hisbah – a milestone which for the Ministry is evidence of the corps’ respect for human rights and community-sensitive approach to checking immorality.
“Peace is the foundation for development. Governor Aliyu’s policies are rooted in fairness, the dignity, and the protection of all citizens,” said the Commissioner.
He further emphasized that the Sokoto State Government under Governor Aliyu is committed to promoting unity, development, and equal opportunity for all residents through inclusive policies and transparent governance. He also commended the administration for ensuring that religious and cultural diversity are respected while maintaining peace, equity, and progress across the state.
