Sokoto Moves to Complete Independent Power Plant

–        As Hamdiya Sidi charged for incitement recants, apologises

Onuminya Innocent, Sokoto

The governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, has restated the commitment of his administration to restart and complete the state Independent Power Plant (IPP).

Governor Aliyu made this known after a State Executive Council meeting which held at the Executive chambers of the government in Sokoto.

Meanwhile, in another significant development, Hamdiya Sidi, the lady facing prosecution by the Police in Sokoto State over alleged incitement of the public to violence, has recanted and tendered an apology to Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto.

On the IPP, according to the governor, the state government would do all that is necessary to ensure completion of the power plant.

He said the completion will boost efforts of the government to complement efforts of the governor to boost economic activities in Sokoto.

The governor further stated that his administration would up the ante in support to security agencies to fight insecurity in the state.

He said efforts are already underway to improve logistics support to security agencies. This, he stated, is among other key decisions taken to improve the state.

Speaking in an update on his X handle, Gov. Aliyu said, “I am pleased to announce that the Sokoto State Executive Council, under my leadership, has approved several key projects aimed at enhancing the security, infrastructure, and cultural heritage of our beloved state.

“We will be acquiring additional security vehicles to strengthen our efforts in combating insecurity and ensuring the safety of our citizens.

“Additionally, we have approved the renovation of the Sokoto State Historical Museum (Waziri Junaidu History and Culture Bureau) to preserve our rich history and culture for future generations.

“We are also committed to completing the Sokoto State Independent Power Project (IPP) to provide adequate electricity, which is vital for our economic growth and the overall well-being of our people.

“Moreover, we have approved the construction of new roads, including Zurmi Road, Gobir Road, Argungu Road, and the road from Kalambaina to the Arkilla Fulani Roundabout. These improvements will enhance connectivity and facilitate trade and movement within the state.

“Lastly, we will renovate six major religious centres to support the continuation of religious practices, ensuring our communities have the necessary facilities for worship.

“These initiatives reflect our dedication to the progress and prosperity of Sokoto State. Together, we will build a better future for the good people of Sokoto State.”

Hamdiya Sidi who also apologised to people of the state, specifically asked for forgiveness from the governor for defaming him and insulting sensitivity of the people.

Sidi, who was arrested by the Police after a report was made against her accusing her of inciting people in Wurno area of the state tonrise against the local administration, said in a video, that she went beyond her bounds.

Pleading with Gov. Aliyu for forgiveness, Sidi said she regretted her action and promised never to repeat such.

Her cement which was rendered in Hausa, translated, reads: “My name is Hamdiya Sidi Sharrif. I live in Achida, which is in Wurno local government. 

“I am the lady who made a recent video, where I made some insinuations against the governor regarding security and internally displaced people in Sokoto State. 

“As a woman, a Muslim, and an indigene of Sokoto State, there are statements I made against the governor, his wife, and family in that video that I deeply regret. As a lady and a Muslim, also considering my age, I think I shouldn’t have made all those harsh and unpalatable statements. I am very sorry, and I beg for forgiveness. 

“I also wish to retract the statement I made where I advised all the internally displaced people that have no homes to forcefully invade and occupy the government house. I am very sorry for trying to instigate such a disorder. Nobody has the right to invade the government house. I sincerely regret making such statements, and I wholeheartedly retract them. I wish to tender my apologies to the governor, his team, and whoever i offended with my unprovoked outburst.

“I wish to also use this opportunity to debunk the rumours that I am organising women to form a terrorist group. There is no such thing, therefore such rumours should be ignored.”