By Our Correspondent

The Gombe State Government has rolled out a sweeping set of security directives that critics say could deepen public hardship, restrict livelihoods and raise fresh concerns about civil liberties, all under the banner of strengthening internal security.

The measures, announced after an expanded State Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, include an outright ban on the scrap metal trade popularly known as Bola Jari, compulsory profiling of new tenants across the state, and the forceful reclamation of grazing reserves and cattle routes.

The decisions were made public by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Zubair Muhammad Umar, who said the government acted in response to rising security challenges and vandalism of public infrastructure.

Scrap Metal Ban Hits Informal Economy

One of the most controversial decisions is the immediate statewide ban on scrap metal trading, a business that serves as a major source of daily income for hundreds of unemployed youths and low-income earners.

According to the Attorney-General, the Security Council linked scrap metal activities to the vandalisation of schools and other public assets, arguing that stolen government property often ends up in scrap markets.

He said the government viewed the sector as “unorganised and unregulated,” lacking identifiable leadership or a framework that would make monitoring possible.

As a result, all Bola Jari activities have been suspended indefinitely, pending the organisation of dealers under a recognised leadership structure and the creation of a government-controlled operating centre under tight security supervision.

The move, however, leaves many families without a clear alternative means of survival, raising fears of increased poverty and social tension.

Mandatory Tenant Profiling Raises Privacy Concerns

In another far-reaching directive, the government ordered compulsory profiling of all new residents and tenants seeking accommodation anywhere in Gombe State.

Barrister Zubair said landlords and communities will now be required to document personal details of individuals relocating into the state, a measure he described as critical for intelligence gathering and crime prevention.

Security agencies, he said, will have access to such records whenever the need arises.

While government officials insist the policy is purely for security purposes, civil rights advocates warn it could open the door to abuse, discrimination and unwarranted surveillance of law-abiding citizens.

Forceful Reclamation of Grazing Routes

On the long-running issue of farmer-herder conflicts, the Security Council approved the constitution of an enforcement committee to implement the White Paper on Grazing Reserves and Cattle Routes.

The White Paper followed an earlier report by a committee led by retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Zubairu Muazu (rtd), which reviewed the status of gazetted grazing areas across the state.

The Attorney-General said the enforcement team has been mandated to fully reclaim all encroached grazing reserves and cattle routes, signalling tougher action that could reignite tensions in affected communities.

Security Crackdown After Pindiga Killings

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Ahmad Chuso, confirmed that security agencies have intensified operations following recent abductions and killings in Pindiga, Akko Local Government Area.

He assured residents that efforts are ongoing to rescue abducted victims and apprehend those responsible, adding that the Governor has demanded a detailed report on the investigations.

Vigilantes, Hunters to Join Security Operations

Adding another layer to the security overhaul, the Emir of Yamaltu, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu, revealed that the Council approved the expanded deployment of local vigilante groups and hunters to work alongside conventional security agencies.

According to him, the move is aimed at boosting grassroots surveillance and ensuring quicker response to security threats.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also directed Local Government Chairmen and Traditional Rulers to hold weekly security meetings to review developments and take preventive action.

Security or Silent Suffering?

While the government maintains that the measures are necessary to protect lives and property, many residents fear the policies may worsen economic hardship, increase state control over private lives and push vulnerable groups further to the margins.

As Gombe tightens security, the big question remains: will safety improve—or will ordinary citizens pay the heaviest price?

By Staff Reporter

The Gombe State Government has rolled out a sweeping set of security directives that critics say could deepen public hardship, restrict livelihoods and raise fresh concerns about civil liberties, all under the banner of strengthening internal security.

The measures, announced after an expanded State Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, include an outright ban on the scrap metal trade popularly known as Bola Jari, compulsory profiling of new tenants across the state, and the forceful reclamation of grazing reserves and cattle routes.

The decisions were made public by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Zubair Muhammad Umar, who said the government acted in response to rising security challenges and vandalism of public infrastructure.

Scrap Metal Ban Hits Informal Economy

One of the most controversial decisions is the immediate statewide ban on scrap metal trading, a business that serves as a major source of daily income for hundreds of unemployed youths and low-income earners.

According to the Attorney-General, the Security Council linked scrap metal activities to the vandalisation of schools and other public assets, arguing that stolen government property often ends up in scrap markets.

He said the government viewed the sector as “unorganised and unregulated,” lacking identifiable leadership or a framework that would make monitoring possible.

As a result, all Bola Jari activities have been suspended indefinitely, pending the organisation of dealers under a recognised leadership structure and the creation of a government-controlled operating centre under tight security supervision.

The move, however, leaves many families without a clear alternative means of survival, raising fears of increased poverty and social tension.

Mandatory Tenant Profiling Raises Privacy Concerns

In another far-reaching directive, the government ordered compulsory profiling of all new residents and tenants seeking accommodation anywhere in Gombe State.

Barrister Zubair said landlords and communities will now be required to document personal details of individuals relocating into the state, a measure he described as critical for intelligence gathering and crime prevention.

Security agencies, he said, will have access to such records whenever the need arises.

While government officials insist the policy is purely for security purposes, civil rights advocates warn it could open the door to abuse, discrimination and unwarranted surveillance of law-abiding citizens.

Forceful Reclamation of Grazing Routes

On the long-running issue of farmer-herder conflicts, the Security Council approved the constitution of an enforcement committee to implement the White Paper on Grazing Reserves and Cattle Routes.

The White Paper followed an earlier report by a committee led by retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Zubairu Muazu (rtd), which reviewed the status of gazetted grazing areas across the state.

The Attorney-General said the enforcement team has been mandated to fully reclaim all encroached grazing reserves and cattle routes, signalling tougher action that could reignite tensions in affected communities.

Security Crackdown After Pindiga Killings

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Ahmad Chuso, confirmed that security agencies have intensified operations following recent abductions and killings in Pindiga, Akko Local Government Area.

He assured residents that efforts are ongoing to rescue abducted victims and apprehend those responsible, adding that the Governor has demanded a detailed report on the investigations.

Vigilantes, Hunters to Join Security Operations

Adding another layer to the security overhaul, the Emir of Yamaltu, Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu, revealed that the Council approved the expanded deployment of local vigilante groups and hunters to work alongside conventional security agencies.

According to him, the move is aimed at boosting grassroots surveillance and ensuring quicker response to security threats.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya also directed Local Government Chairmen and Traditional Rulers to hold weekly security meetings to review developments and take preventive action.

Security or Silent Suffering?

While the government maintains that the measures are necessary to protect lives and property, many residents fear the policies may worsen economic hardship, increase state control over private lives and push vulnerable groups further to the margins.

As Gombe tightens security, the big question remains: will safety improve—or will ordinary citizens pay the heaviest price?

By Our Correspondent

The Gombe State Chapter of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning the recent gruesome murder of Ahmed Aliyu, popularly known as Amadi Kasiran, who was killed by suspected thugs in the Hammadu Kafi area of Gombe metropolis.

In a press release signed by the chapter coordinator, Comrade Muhammad Usman Deba, and the Secretary General, Christian Gideon Musa, the group described the killing as a “tragic and barbaric act” that not only constitutes a criminal offence but also poses a serious threat to the peace and security of Gombe State.

“This heinous act is not only a grave criminal offense but a direct attack on the peaceful coexistence and security of our dear state,” the statement read. “We view this cowardly act as part of a disturbing trend by unscrupulous elements who are hell-bent on tarnishing the image of Gombe State and destabilizing the harmony that we have all worked tirelessly to uphold.”

The CNG lauded the prompt response of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, commending his directive for a full security crackdown and his commitment to ensuring justice for the victim’s family.

“We commend His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for his swift and decisive action in responding to this unfortunate incident. His assurance of justice and security reflects his unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining peace in Gombe State,” the group stated.

The organization also praised security agencies for their quick and professional response and urged them to intensify efforts in curbing thuggery, gang violence, and all forms of criminal activity threatening the state’s stability.

“We urge the security forces to heighten their surveillance and crackdown on all criminal networks operating within our communities,” the release emphasized.

Furthermore, the group issued a stern warning to individuals or groups who may be involved in violent or criminal acts, asserting that such actions will not be tolerated.

“To all individuals or groups who may be tempted to engage in such evil acts: we will not sit idly while the peace and stability of Gombe is jeopardized. Desist immediately or face the full wrath of the law,” CNG warned.

The coalition also addressed the youth of Gombe State directly, cautioning them against being recruited into violent activities.

“Violence and thuggery offer no future — they only bring pain, division, and destruction. Let us instead channel our energy towards building a better, more united, and prosperous Gombe,” the group advised.

The CNG concluded its statement with condolences to the family and loved ones of the late Ahmed Aliyu, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and swift justice in the matter.

Ahmed Aliyu’s killing has sent shockwaves through the state, with growing calls from civil society, religious groups, and community leaders for urgent measures to address rising insecurity and youth restiveness.