Bauchi suspends Emir of Lame over alleged misconduct, sets up panel
The Bauchi State Government has suspended the Emir of Lame in Toro Local Government Area, Alhaji Aliyu Yakubu Lame, over allegations of misconduct.
The government also constituted a 12-member Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the allegations against the traditional ruler.
The decision was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Special Adviser to Governor Bala Mohammed on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado.
According to the statement, the suspension followed the receipt of several petitions and intelligence reports from community leaders, stakeholders and security agencies over alleged abuse of office and arbitrary exercise of authority.
The allegations include unlawful interference in land administration, unauthorised collection of levies, interference in the operations of mining companies and other acts considered inconsistent with the responsibilities of a traditional ruler.
The government said the alleged activities had generated tension within the Lame Emirate and raised concerns about public peace and security.
It added that the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs had earlier requested explanations from the Emir, who submitted written responses, but the government considered them unsatisfactory, necessitating an independent investigation.
The panel, chaired by retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Sani Mohammed, has been given three weeks to investigate the allegations and submit its findings and recommendations to the government.
Other members include retired DSS Director, Musa Mohammed Yankari, and representatives of the police, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Natural Resources Development.
The government also directed the Emir to remain within the Lame Emirate throughout his suspension unless authorised otherwise and barred him from interfering in the administrative, traditional and official affairs of the Emirate Council.
To ensure continuity in the administration of the emirate, the government appointed the Senior Councillor, Alhaji Bala Abubakar Gumau, who holds the traditional title of Galadiman Lame, to oversee its day-to-day affairs in an interim capacity.
The government, however, stressed that the allegations remained subject to investigation and that the suspended Emir would be given an opportunity to defend himself in accordance with the principles of natural justice and fair hearing.
It urged residents, community leaders, traditional titleholders and youths in the emirate to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies and the panel throughout the investigation.
Bauchi suspends Emir of Lame over alleged misconduct, sets up panel