Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has initiated swift peace-building efforts in Darazo Local Government Area following renewed clashes between farmers and herders that threatened communal stability in the region.
The governor, accompanied by the state Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), traditional rulers, and other senior security officials, convened a high-level peace meeting with stakeholders and affected community members on Saturday.
During the meeting, held in Darazo town, Governor Mohammed acknowledged the complexity of the conflict, which he attributed to competition over land and resources. He disclosed that the state government had previously allocated 2,500 hectares of land each in the Sade and Darazo forest reserves to promote sustainable farming activities and reduce tensions.
Condemning the recent outbreak of violence, the governor appealed for calm and mutual understanding among the warring parties.
“We must all reject violence and embrace dialogue,” he said. “My administration is committed to fostering peace, and we will continue to support local mediation efforts to resolve disputes amicably.”
Governor Mohammed reaffirmed that peaceful coexistence was essential for development and urged both farmers and herders to respect one another’s rights while working together for the good of the community.
“We will strengthen our mechanisms for dialogue and conflict prevention to ensure this does not happen again,” he assured residents.
He also emphasized the need for traditional institutions, local government authorities, and security agencies to collaborate in promoting harmony.
The governor’s intervention was widely welcomed by community leaders, who expressed hope that his proactive steps would help douse tensions and restore normalcy.
Meanwhile, security has been reinforced in the affected areas, with joint patrols by police and local vigilantes aimed at preventing further breakdown of law and order.
The Bauchi State Government said it would continue monitoring the situation and provide necessary support to victims of the conflict, including possible compensation and resettlement initiatives.
