The Sokoto State Government has formally distanced itself from a widely circulated report about a car and shopping gift presented to Kaduna-based TikTok influencer, Rahama Saidu, clarifying that the gesture was a private act and had no official connection to Governor Ahmed Aliyu or his administration.
In a Sunday statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Abubakar Bawa, the government said the donation was made by a private individual identified as Sanin Jaman to Saidu, apparently in appreciation of her public admiration for the policies of the Aliyu-led administration.
“The Office wishes to categorically dissociate Governor Ahmed Aliyu from the said donation, as it has no connection whatsoever with the governor or the Sokoto State Government,” the statement said, stressing that the gift was purely a personal arrangement between the benefactor and the beneficiary.
Bawa reiterated that the state government did not endorse or fund the vehicle and shopping items in question, warning that individuals should not conduct similar acts in the name of the governor or the government without prior consultation.
The spokesperson further emphasised, “I want to make it categorically clear that the said donation has nothing to do with Governor Ahmed Aliyu. It was purely personal between the two of them, the giver and the beneficiary.”
While welcoming genuine contributions from private citizens, the government urged that such support be channelled through formal and impactful avenues that align with the state’s strategic priorities.
The statement referenced the administration’s nine-point SMART agenda, outlining key focus areas including tackling insecurity, youth empowerment, moral upbringing, environmental sanitation, education, healthcare delivery, and support for vulnerable groups such as orphans, widows, and persons with disabilities.
In addition, the government highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by displaced persons affected by banditry both within Sokoto and in adjacent areas, noting that there remains room for well-meaning individuals and corporate bodies to support official government interventions in these areas.
