The Kebbi State Police Command has strongly refuted recent claims by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kebbi State Branch, alleging that nine local government areas within the state are “ungovernable.”
In a statement issued on Monday, October 6, 2025, the Command described the allegation as false, misleading, and highly irresponsible, stressing that no part of Kebbi State has been rendered inaccessible to law enforcement or judicial authorities.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, the Command’s attention was drawn to the statement credited to the NBA Chairman in Kebbi, who also reportedly called for a boycott of courts in the affected areas.
The police maintained that the claim was baseless and capable of creating unnecessary panic among residents and investors who continue to see Kebbi as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states.
“The Command wishes to categorically debunk this claim as false, misleading, and grossly irresponsible. At no time or circumstance has any part of Kebbi State become ungovernable or inaccessible to law enforcement or judicial authorities,” the statement read in part.
Clarifying the circumstances surrounding a recent incident referenced by the NBA, the police explained that the abduction of Barrister Isiaku Danjuma, a legal practitioner based in Kebbi but originally from Niger State, did not occur within Kebbi territory.
The Command revealed that the unfortunate incident took place in Ibeto, Niger State, not within the jurisdiction of Kebbi. The victim had reportedly travelled from Niger to Abuja and joined a bus provided by the Kebbi State Government for attendees of the investiture ceremony of Barrister Hudu Lawan, SAN.
“On the return journey, he alighted at Kontagora and proceeded to Ibeto, where he was unfortunately abducted,” the police clarified, adding that the case was already being investigated by relevant authorities in Niger State.
The Kebbi State Police Command emphasized that while it deeply regrets the abduction of the legal practitioner, it is counterproductive for any professional group to issue sweeping allegations without first verifying facts from the police or other security agencies.
Such actions, the Command noted, only serve to spread fear, embolden criminal elements, and undermine ongoing collaborative security operations across the Northwest region.
Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, assured residents that Kebbi remains safe and secure, urging citizens to go about their lawful activities without fear or panic.
He called on residents to support the police by providing credible information that could aid in the prevention and detection of crime within the state.
“The Command reiterates its commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining public peace, and ensuring that all criminal elements are apprehended and brought to justice,” the statement continued.
In a show of professional restraint, the police also appealed to the NBA and other civil society groups to engage constructively with security agencies before making public pronouncements that could disrupt social harmony.
Finally, the Kebbi State Police Command appealed to the abductors of Barrister Isiaku Danjuma to release him immediately, unconditionally, and unharmed, assuring that every effort is being made to ensure his safe return.
