Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, has condemned, in the strongest terms, the extent of destruction caused to public and private properties by rampaging youths who embarked on violent protests in Azare, headquarters of Katagum LGA of the state, on Monday.
The governor, who visited the town on Thursday to assess the level of destruction, described it as uncalled for, unwarranted, and criminal.
Bala Mohammed, who took time to visit all the affected places, expressed dismay, saying that it was a monumental loss to both the government and the individuals affected.
Among the places destroyed are the Government House Annex, the house of a former Deputy Governor, the Katagum LGA Secretariat, an Islamiya School, and others.
While speaking at the Palace of the Emir of Katagum, Umar Farouk II, the Governor restated that the protest was necessitated by the failure of the government at all levels to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the citizens.
The Governor sympathised with the Emir of the incident and assured him that his administration would continue to be alert to its responsibilities in terms of providing adequate security cover for the citizens in addition to the infrastructural development it embarked on.
He also announced the relaxing of the 24-hour curfew earlier imposed on the LGA, saying it is now from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. until further notice when the security situation must have improved.
The governor added that, “As leaders, we have heard the voices of the masses, and collectively, we will address the various needs.”
He also stated that his administration is making frantic efforts to address the development of loopholes in Azare Township and its environs, calling on traditional rulers and religious leaders to assist the government.
He added that the government would engage in sensitisation messages on the need to live in peace and harmony with one another.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Auwal Musa Mohammed, while briefing stakeholders on the situation, said that no life was lost during the incident and commended the governor for his support of the security agencies in the state.
In his remarks, the Emir of Katagum, Alh Umar Farouk II, appreciated the Governor for his concern and for having time to come personally to see things for himself.
He also commended security agencies for acting promptly and professionally to stem the tide from escalation, requesting more security presence in the area.
The Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Aminu Hassan Gamawa, announced the relaxation of the curfew imposed on Azare LGA from 6:00 to 10:00 henceforth.
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