Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has directed the immediate suspension of all commercial activities in Twenty-four cattle markets operations in Alkaleri, Bauchi, Kirfi and Tafawa Balewa Local Government Areas of the state, as part of measures to address security concerns in the state.

The measure was  taken in order to checkmate activities of bandits and other criminal elements, particularly in addressing security concerns arising from the use of such markets to support criminal activities.

This included rampant cattle rustling, killings, kidnapping for ransom, extortion, facilitation of exchange of weapons and illegal monetary supply, among others.

This was contained in a press statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the governor,  Mukhtar Gidado.

The markets, while in operation, had become soft targets for criminals, who stole livestock, terrorised traders, and disrupted food supply chains, causing significant economic losses which the government viewed as unacceptable and a threat to sustained livelihood of the adjoining communities.

While the measure was temporary and would remain in force until significant improvement was achieved, security agencies have been directed to ensure full compliance with the order.

The local government councils, the traditional rulers of the affected areas including emirs, district heads and village heads were to take appropriate measures to sensitise their subjects on the measure and also ensure the effective monitoring of the implementation of the order.

The identified markets were: Alkaleri, Mansur, Futuk, Ÿalo,Gwana, Yalon Gurza, Kuka, Rimi, Pali, Bokwas,Kwaimawa, Mai-Ari, Gajin Duguri and  Maina Ma’aji, in Alkaleri Local Government Area.

 Deji Elumoye, Alex Enumah, Linus Aleke, Segun Awofadeji, Hammed Shittu and Muhammad Sabiru