In a startling revelation, the Emir of Ningi Emirate in Bauchi State, Alhaji (Dr) Yunusa Muhammadu Dan Yaya, has made grave allegations against some traditional rulers, accusing them of colluding with kidnappers to instill fear among residents of the region.
Kidnapping, which has seen a surge in recent times, is reportedly being turned into a lucrative enterprise by these traditional rulers, who are purportedly inviting their own relatives to partake in the abduction of local residents.
Numerous incidents of kidnapping have been reported across various parts of Bauchi State, with peasant farmers, among the hardest-hit, now living in fear of venturing to their fields.
The Emir’s allegations came to light during a meeting held last Friday, where he summoned traditional rulers, encompassing heads of over 1000 wards, to his palace to address the escalating insecurity within the emirate.
Emir Dan Yaya cited intelligence reports, which indicate that some unscrupulous ward heads are actively collaborating with criminals, enabling them to perpetrate a range of criminal activities.
He unequivocally warned that any traditional ruler found complicit in such activities would face dethronement. Additionally, he announced plans to conduct comprehensive screenings of all ward heads to identify and remove any individuals involved in unlawful acts.
Emir Dan Yaya issued a stern warning to those engaged in criminal activities, urging them to desist before the long arm of the law catches up with them. He underscored that no one implicated in criminal acts would be spared from justice.
During the meeting, Hon. Ibrahim Zubairu, the Caretaker Chairman of Ningi Local Government Area, explained that the Council, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, had launched awareness campaigns in various communities to educate residents about their role in combating criminal activities.
Chairman Zubairu pledged an unwavering commitment to addressing insecurity in the region, vowing that no effort would be spared in this endeavor.
