Banditry: Sokoto shuts down telecommunication networks after Zamfara, Katsina

The Sokoto State Government has shut down telecommunications networks in 14 of the 23 local government areas of the state.

Governor Aminu Tambuwal said on Monday the measure was part of the efforts to check banditry.

Speaking in an interview with the Voice of America Hausa Service, Tambuwal said the state secured approval from the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Isah Pantami, before enforcing the ban.

He added the affected council areas are the most vulnerable to bandit attacks in the state and the suspension trails same development in neighbouring states, Zamfara and Katsina. 

“Due to the ongoing military successes in Zamfara State, the bandits are fleeing to Sokoto,” the Governor said.

Tambuwal said the network ban is effective in Dange Shuni, Tambuwal, Sabon Birni, Raba, Tureta, Goronyo, Tangaza and Isa local government areas amongst others.