Bauchi Shuts Down Cattle Markets in Four LGAs Amid Security Concerns

The Bauchi State Administration has sanctioned the immediate halt of commercial operations in numerous cattle markets throughout Alkaleri, Bauchi, Kirfi, and Tafawa Balewa Local Government Areas, attributing it to escalating security issues.

This resolution, endorsed by Governor Bala Mohammed, was revealed in a communiqué released on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado.

The statement indicated that the markets affected in Alkaleri Local Government Area comprise Alkaleri, Mansur, Futuk, Yalo, Gwana, Yalon Gurza, Kuka, Rimi, Pali, Bokwas, Kwaimawa, Mai-Ari, Gajin Duguri, and Maina Ma’aji.

In Bauchi Local Government Area, the Liman Katagum market is impacted, while in Kirfi Local Government Area, the suspended markets consist of Lariski, Bara, Sharfuri (night market), Cheledi, and Boli.

The markets impacted in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area include Burga, Bununu, Ball, Kulumbo, and Zwall.

The administration stated that this action was taken to tackle security dangers associated with the markets, including cattle theft, abduction, homicides, extortion, illegal arms trade, and other illicit activities.

It clarified that these markets have increasingly turned into targets for criminal factions who pilfer livestock, intimidate vendors, and disrupt food supply chains, leading to financial losses and endangering the livelihoods of surrounding communities.

The communiqué highlighted that the suspension is provisional and will persist until there is substantial enhancement in the security landscape.

Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to guarantee full adherence to the directive, while local government councils and traditional leaders, including emirs, district chiefs, and village heads, have been assigned the responsibility of educating residents and overseeing compliance.