Bauchi Govt Inaugurates Judicial Commission to Probe Darazo Violence, Reprisal Attacks, Seek Lasting Peace
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State Government inaugurated the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into recurring violence in the Darazo Local Government Area following a reprisal attack reportedly mobilized from Dosho that left nine persons dead and over ten houses destroyed.
Governor, represented at the ceremony by his deputy Auwal Jadau, expressed sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as a painful reminder of a cycle of violence that must be broken.
He recalled that Governor Bala Mohammed had visited Lanzai on Friday, 5th June 2021, to commiserate with affected communities, providing food items, mats, and blankets, while arranging building materials such as cement and roofing sheets to support rebuilding efforts.
He lamented that despite sustained peace efforts, similar incidents had occurred in Yautari, Barilwa, and Alia forests, resulting in deaths of five police officers.
He condemned destruction of lives and property, stressing criminality and resource conflicts must not be allowed to destabilize communities.
The governor announced the establishment of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, chaired by retired Grand Khadi Yakubu Marafa, with members drawn from relevant ministries, security agencies, traditional institutions and stakeholders.
The commission is mandated to investigate immediate and remote causes of the crisis, identify perpetrators and sponsors, and recommend measures for lasting peace, including prosecution and territorial dispute resolution.
Mohammed urged stakeholders, including farmers, herders, traditional rulers, and youth leaders, to cooperate with the commission by providing credible information.
He reiterated that farming and herding communities remain vital to the state’s economy and must not be divided along ethnic lines.
Chairman of the Commission Marafa, expressed gratitude for trust placed in him, praying for wisdom, unity, and divine guidance in resolving the crisis.
He assured the panel would discharge its duties diligently and submit its report within one month, in line with its terms of reference.
