GOV. BAGO VISITS KAGARA EMIRATE, SUES FOR PEACE AMONG VARIOUS COMMUNITIES.
Niger State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago has sued for peace among communities in Rafi local government area of the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor,Bologi Ibrahim,the Farmer Governor made the call at the Palace of Emir of Kagara when he visited, sequel to a communal clash between Fulani and Kamuku communities that destroyed many lives and houses in the area.
He describes the incident as unfortunate and commiserated with those affected.
The Farmer Governor observed that land grabbing activities of some title holders in the Emirate and violent behaviour of some members vigilante contributed to the clash
He said those identified should report themselves to the police headquarters in Minna or be arrested, as no one is above the law.
The Farmer Governor also cautioned politicians in the emirate who have allowed their supporters to be instigating a crisis in the area to desist and embrace peace.
He directed that no land should be sold within the Emirate without government clearance through the Emirate Council, believing that the measure would provide a lasting solution.
He further appealed to the people not to continue to take laws into their hands but to report to the appropriate authorities.
The Farmer Governor then disclosed a donation of N1,000,000 each to those killed, hospitalised and houses destroyed among the two communities to cushion the effect of the clash.
He also tasked the Emir of Kagara to appoint district and ward heads among all the tribes in the Emirate to ensure inclusivity.
In his remarks, the Emir of Kagara, Ahmad Garba Attahiru II, appreciated the visit of the Farmer Governor, acknowledging that the communal clash was unfortunate and avoidable.
The Emir assured that his Emirate Council will work closely with the local government council Chairman and other relevant stakeholders to forestall reoccurrence.
The Maina of Kagara, Yusuf Kure, who spoke on behalf of the people of Kamuku in an interview, appreciated the intervention of the Farmer Governor, saying it will go a long way in providing a lasting peace in the area.
Also speaking was the vice chairman of Miyeti Allah Rafi local government area, Shehu Uba, who on behalf of the Fulani community, promised to embrace peace going forward.
Recall that the communal clash between the Fulani and Kamuku people occurred about 2 weeks ago, prompting the Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, to visit the affected communities for interventions.
It is hoped that the visit of the Farmer Governor will calm nerves and reinforce peace initiatives in the area.
