Commercial activities in several cattle markets across Bauchi State have been halted following a directive approved by Governor Bala Mohammed over worsening security concerns.
The development, made known in a statement on Thursday by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, is aimed at curbing criminal activities linked to the affected markets.
According to the statement, the decision followed growing concerns over the use of cattle markets as operational hubs for crimes such as cattle rustling, kidnapping, killings, extortion, and the illegal exchange of weapons and funds.
Gidado noted that the markets have increasingly become targets for criminal elements who exploit trading activities to perpetrate violence, disrupt livestock supply chains, and inflict heavy economic losses on traders and local communities.
He described the situation as a serious threat to livelihoods and food security in the affected areas, stressing that the government considers the development unacceptable.
The suspension, he said, is a temporary measure that will remain in force until there is a significant improvement in the security situation.
Security agencies have been directed to enforce strict compliance with the order, while local government authorities and traditional institutions have been mandated to sensitise residents and ensure adherence.
The affected markets are located across Alkaleri, Bauchi, Kirfi, and Tafawa Balewa local government areas, covering major trading hubs known for livestock activities.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace and safeguarding economic activities, assuring residents that normal market operations will resume once security conditions improve.
