Gombe Gov Suspends Chiefs in Farmer-Herder Conflict

…heightens anti-drug efforts in 11 LGAs Two customary leaders, including the District and Village Heads from the impacted community in Gombe...

…heightens anti-drug efforts in 11 LGAs

Two customary leaders, including the District and Village Heads from the impacted community in Gombe State, who faced allegations of failing in their duty to stop the worsening of local disputes, have been put on hold.

The suspension was among the critical actions implemented by the State Government to enhance safety throughout the state, after an extended meeting of the State Security Council led by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

The gathering included leaders of security organizations and paramilitary units within the state; pertinent Commissioners, Council Presidents, and customary chiefs, headed by the Emir of Gombe, HRH Alhaji Dr Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III.

Shortly after the meeting, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Zubair Muhammad Umar, informed journalists that the Council discussed recent security situations in detail and approved significant resolutions intended to preserve Gombe's outstanding reputation as one of Nigeria's most tranquil states.

Umar revealed that the committee had been informed about renewed conflicts between farmers and herders in certain areas of the state, resulting in the death of two individuals in the Funakaye Local Government Area.

He stated, "The Council considered their lack of action a significant failure in responsibility. Traditional leaders serve as the government's primary point of contact at the local level, and they need to take initiative in addressing conflicts before they worsen."

As part of an additional security step, the Council prohibited the movement of scrap materials (Bola-Jari) between 6:00 pm and 7:00 am, after reports indicated that stolen components and damaged public assets are frequently transported during nighttime.

To enhance enforcement, the government has also approved the consolidation of scrap and second-hand property trading, commonly referred to as "Bola Jari" operations, into a specific area within the state capital.

This will be managed by a committee led by the Commissioner of Trade, Industry, and Tourism, comprising members from security organizations, local government bodies, and various interested parties.

The Commissioner stated, 'This approach will ensure effective oversight, responsibility, and control of the trade, which has sadly turned into a pathway for illegal actions.'

The Security Council also discussed the increasing threat of drug abuse and its connection to rising criminal behavior.

The head of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Gombe presented a scene that the Council referred to as alarming regarding the patterns of drug trafficking and usage within the state.

In a bid to enhance the battle against drugs and illegal substances, NDLEA revealed intentions to set up operational offices across all 11 Local Government Areas in Gombe State.

The Council praised this action, vowing governmental backing to facilitate complete execution.

Umar highlighted that the majority of crimes are linked to drug use, and therefore, the government will increase its focus on education, policing, and recovery programs to protect youth and society.

The top legal official also stated that the Council denounced recent assaults on law enforcement by certain individuals, cautioning that such behavior will no longer be accepted.

"Security officers are carrying out their legal responsibilities for the state and country. Any assault against them is a violation of law and public order. The government will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone proven to have attacked or interfered with security personnel," he said.

Regarding the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders, the Council advised the complete execution of the suggestions made by the AIG Zubairu Muazu (Rtd.) Committee, which highlighted land encroachment and obstruction of livestock pathways as key causes of repeated disputes.

He stated that this was a component of a long-term plan aimed at putting an end to repeated conflicts between farmers and herders in the state.

The Security Council also approved the establishment of district and emirate-level committees to oversee public facilities and infrastructure within their areas.

Every committee, as stated by the Attorney-General, will receive funding via local government budgets to guarantee adequate upkeep and prompt fixes for damaged buildings, encouraging residents to take responsibility for public assets and protect them from damage and carelessness.

Zubair Umar emphasized the unwavering commitment of the administration headed by Inuwa Yahaya to carefully protect the image of Gombe as the most tranquil state in the North-East and one of the secure regions in Nigeria.

Additionally, Mai Kaltungo, Engr. Saleh Muhammad, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, promised ongoing support and cooperation with the government and security forces.

"As leaders who are most connected to our communities, we will increase awareness and communication to promote peace at the local level," he stated.

The royal father advised other traditional leaders throughout the state to stay alert, encourage communication and mutual understanding among the people to avoid further disputes.

FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).