Gov Bala Mohammed Orders Immediate Closure of Cattle Markets in Four LGAs Over Security Concerns

By Tgnews Reporter

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state, has approved the immediate suspension of all commercial activities in several cattle markets across Alkaleri, Bauchi, Kirfi, and Tafawa Balewa Local Government Areas of the state.

The decision, announced in a statement issued by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, aims to tackle escalating security threats linked to the markets, which authorities say have been exploited by criminal elements.

According to the statement, the affected markets have been associated with cattle rustling, killings, kidnapping for ransom, extortion, illegal arms transactions, and other illicit financial dealings.

Criminals reportedly use the locations to steal livestock, terrorise traders, and disrupt food supply chains, leading to significant economic losses and threatening the livelihoods of local communities.

Alkaleri LGA (14 markets):  Alkaleri, Mansur, Futuk, Yalo, Gwana, Yalon Gurza, Kuka, Rimi, Pali, Bokwas, Kwaimawa, Mai Ari, Gajin Duguri, and Maina Ma’aji.

Kirfi LGA (4 markets): Lariski, Bara, Sharfuri (night market), Cheledi, and Boli.

Tafawa Balewa LGA (5 markets): Burga, Bununu, Ball, Kulumbo, and Zwall.

Bauchi LGA:  The popular Liman Katagum cattle market.

The government described the closure as a temporary measure that will remain in force until there is a significant improvement in the security situation in the affected areas. Security agencies have been directed to enforce full compliance with the order.

The statement further urged local government councils and traditional rulers — including emirs, district heads, and village heads — to sensitise residents and actively monitor compliance.

This move forms part of broader efforts by the Bauchi State Government to disrupt bandit networks and criminal activities that have been using cattle markets as operational hubs in parts of the state.