Gov Aliyu inaugurates taskforce to clampdown on food smugglers

As part of measure to tackle smuggling and hoarding of foodstuffs in Sokoto State, the state governor, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, on Thursday, approved the constitution of a Task force to deal with the menace.

The nine-member committee is chaired by Dalhatu Sidi Mamman, while Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd) will serve as secretary.

Others include Garrison Commander 8 Division, Comptroller of Custom, Comptroller of Immigration, Commissioner of Police, Representatives of DSS, NSCDC, Sultanate Council, and Grain Sellers Association among others.

According to a press statement signed by the chief press secretary to the governor, Abubakar Bawa, and made available to newsmen in the state, the governor charges the task force members to identify all the routes through which smuggling activities.

“To identify all hoarding facilities and ensure foodstuffs are released and sold to general public at a controlled price.

“To identify hoarders and smugglers and take appropriate action against them”.

It also includes taking any necessary measures to ensure food sufficiency in the state as well as reporting to the Secretary to the State governor’s office periodically on all activities of the committee.