The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, has raised concerns over the rising number of deaths from attacks and other tragedies across the state, describing the situation as an escalating security and humanitarian crisis.

Dan’iya, popularly known as Walin Sokoto, said available reports indicated that more than 100 people may have died in separate incidents across the state in the past 10 days.

In a statement issued on Friday by his media aide, Aminu Abdullahi, the former deputy governor referenced recent attacks in Ungushi, Kebbe Local Government Area, where residents were reportedly killed by bandits, as well as fatalities recorded in Wurno and Silame local government areas.

He also expressed concern over the Gorau boat accident in Goronyo Local Government Area, where the reported death toll had climbed to 53 as search and recovery operations continued.

Dan’iya said the frequency of the incidents required immediate intervention from both the Sokoto State and Federal Governments, arguing that the loss of lives could no longer be treated as isolated occurrences.

He said residents in several communities were facing killings, insecurity and displacement, alongside other avoidable tragedies, and urged authorities to respond with greater urgency.

The ADC candidate maintained that protecting lives and property should remain the primary responsibility of government, arguing that development projects and political activities could not make up for lives lost to insecurity.

Dan’iya also criticised the state government’s recent focus on commissioning and initiating projects as the 2027 elections approach.

He questioned why some of the projects were only being executed or unveiled towards the latter part of the administration’s tenure and called for greater transparency regarding their implementation and expenditure.

According to him, the government should give greater attention to the security and humanitarian difficulties confronting residents rather than allowing political considerations to overshadow the challenges.

The former deputy governor further warned that continued attacks and displacement could affect voter participation in the 2027 general elections, particularly in communities where insecurity had forced residents from their homes.

He called on the federal and state authorities to strengthen security operations, improve intelligence gathering and increase protection for communities considered vulnerable to attacks.

Dan’iya also demanded that perpetrators of violent attacks be identified, arrested and prosecuted, while urging authorities to introduce stronger safety measures on waterways across the state.

He called for improved emergency response systems to reduce fatalities during accidents and other emergencies.

The ADC candidate expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones in the recent attacks and the Gorau boat incident.

He also commended security personnel, local divers, community volunteers and other first responders involved in rescue and recovery efforts.

Dan’iya urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while continuing to demand accountability from public officials.

He said the situation required concrete action from government to restore confidence among residents and protect communities across Sokoto State.