Governor Shuts Down Major Markets in 4 Local Governments; Gives Reason

The governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, announced on Thursday the immediate closure of several markets across four Local Government Areas (LGAs) to address rising insecurity in the state.

The decision, communicated through Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, aims to mitigate security issues associated with the use of marketplaces for criminal activities.

The markets affected by this closure are situated in Alkaleri, Bauchi, Kirfi, and Tafawa Balewa LGAs.

Gidado detailed that these measures are necessary due to various criminal activities occurring in these areas, including livestock theft and disruptions to food supply chains. In total, 14 markets have been closed as a part of this initiative.

In Alkaleri LGA, the specific markets impacted include Alkaleri, Mansur, Futuk, Yalo, Gwana, Yalon Gurza, Kuka, Rimi, Pali, Bokwas, Kwaimawa, Mai Ari, Gajin Duguri, and Maina Ma’aji.

The markets affected in Kirfi LGA are Lariski Bara, Sharfuri (night market), Cheledi and Boli.

He added that in Tafawa Balewa LGA, five different cattle markets, including Burga, Bununu, Ball, Kulumbo and Zwall were shut down.

In Bauchi LGA, the popular Liman Katagum cattle market is also closed.

Gidado also noted that while the market closure is temporary, the measure will remain in force until a conspicuous improvement in security is recorded in these areas.

He assured that the governor has also ordered all security agencies in Bauchi to ensure full compliance with the order.

Local government councils, traditional rulers, including emirs, district heads and village heads, have also been urged to sensitise residents of the new development and ensure effective monitoring of compliance.