Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State has approved the immediate suspension of commercial activities at some cattle markets operating in Alkaleri, Bauchi, Kirfi and Tafawa Balewa Local Government Areas of the State.

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mukhtar Gidado, in a statement indicated that the measure was taken to address security concerns arising from the use of such markets to support criminal activities including rampant cattle rustling, killings, kidnapping for ransom, extortion, facilitation of exchange of weapons and illegal monetary supply, among others.

The Special Adviser identified the markets, according to local governments, to include:

ALKALERI LGA
1. Alkaleri
2. Mansur
3. Futuk
4. Ÿalo
5. Gwana
6. Yalon Gurza
7. Kuka
8. Rimi
9. Pali
10. Bokwas
11. Kwaimawa
12. Mai - Ari
13. Gajin Duguri
14. Maina Ma'aji

BAUCHI LGA
1. Liman katagum

KIRFI LGA
1. Lariski
2. Bara
3. Sharfuri (night market) ,
4. Cheledi
5. Boli

TAFAWA BALEWA
1. Burga
2. Bununu
3. Ball
4. kulumbo
5. Zwall

The government pointed out that the markets, while in operation, had become tactical targets for criminals who steal livestock, terrorize traders, and disrupt food supply chains, causing significant economic losses which the Government views as unacceptable and a threat to sustained livelihood of the adjoining communities.

While the measure is temporary and will remain in force until significant improvement is 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 are to take appropriate measures to sensitive their subjects on the measure and also ensure the effective monitoring of the implementation of the order.