The Bauchi State Government has suspended Emir Aliyu Lame over alleged misconduct and established a 12-member panel to investigate claims of unlawful land interference, unauthorised levies and interference in mining operations.
The Bauchi State Government has suspended the Emir of Lame in Toro Local Government Area, Alhaji Aliyu Lame, over allegations of misconduct and constituted a 12-member Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the claims.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday in Bauchi by the Special Adviser to Governor Bala Mohammed on Media and Publicity, Mr Mukhtar Gidado.
According to Gidado, the decision was approved by the governor following the receipt of formal petitions and intelligence reports from community leaders, stakeholders and security agencies.
He said the allegations against the traditional ruler included unlawful interference in land administration, unauthorised collection of levies, interference in the operations of mining companies and other alleged acts of misconduct.
The government spokesman noted that the alleged activities had generated tension within the Lame Emirate and raised concerns over public peace and security.
He explained that the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs had earlier requested explanations from the Emir, who subsequently submitted written responses.
However, the government reportedly considered the explanations unsatisfactory and decided to initiate an independent administrative investigation.
“The panel, chaired by retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Sani Mohammed, comprises representatives of security agencies, relevant ministries, Toro Local Government Area and other government institutions,” Gidado said.
He disclosed that the panel had been given three weeks to investigate the allegations, examine relevant documents, invite concerned parties and submit its findings and recommendations to the state government.
Gidado explained that the suspension was a precautionary administrative measure intended to protect the integrity of the investigation and prevent possible interference with witnesses and official records.
He added that the Emir had been directed to remain within the Lame Emirate unless otherwise authorised and refrain from interfering in its administrative, traditional and official affairs throughout the suspension period.
The government also directed the Senior Councillor of the Emirate Council, Alhaji Bala Gumau, to oversee the day-to-day administrative affairs of the emirate in an interim capacity.
The spokesman urged residents of the Lame Emirate and Toro Local Government Area, community leaders, traditional titleholders and youths to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding while cooperating with security agencies and the investigative panel.
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