Sunday, May 8, 2011

16 die, 20 houses burnt in Bauchi’s fresh mayhem

Violence erupted in Bogoro and Tafawa Balewa Local Government Areas of Bauchi State yesterday, barely three weeks after the post-presidential election riots in the state that claimed many lives.

Most of the victims of the latest mayhem are the Sayawa, who constitute the majority in the town and surrounding villages. Their traditional rulers have been of the predominantly Fulani stock.

The Sayawa have demanded a separate traditional ruler which has led to attacks and counter attacks in the last two decades.

The State Police Commissioner, Mr. John Abakasanga told newsmen in Bauchi that unknown men invaded villages in Bogoro L.G.A. using the cover of the night and attacked the residents. He said security had been beefed up in the affected areas.

The State Government said the incessant crises in the local government areas were getting worrisome. Government in a statement through the Permanent Secretary, Special Services, Mr. Bbdu Aliyu Nula said: “The present administration, desirous of providing permanent peace in the two local governments, has resolved to nip in the bud the recurrent problems that bedeviled the two local government areas which for long have resulted in the loss of innocent lives and wanton destruction of properties.

“For government to nurture to reality these solutions, all parties involved must accept a cease fire and allow peace to reign. The demands of the people of these local governments can only be realized in an atmosphere devoid of chaos and rancor.”

It appealed to the various communities to give peace a chance, and pledged that it would not abandon its primary responsibility of protecting the lives and properties of its citizens.

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