The Bauchi State Government has revoked all illegal land allocations in Lame Burra Forest Reserve after WikkiTimes’ investigation revealed how the Ningi Local Government chairman illegally allocated hundreds of hectares of land in the forest to his allies.
WikkiTimes uncovered how Mahmuda Hassan Tabla, the chairman, in collaboration with the Coalition of Burra Herders/Farmers Forum indulged in the massive allocations of land at the protected Lame Burra Forest, raking in dubious money under the guise of obtaining approval from the state governor, Bala Mohammed.
How Bauchi Politicians Betray Trust, Plunder State’s Forest Reserves
Ningi LG Chairman Queries Burra District Head For “Speaking Against Deforestation”
Investigation: How Imaginary Streetlights Were Allegedly Used To Steal Over A Billion Naira Under Buhari’s Nose
The investigation revealed how Tabla in alleged connivance with local officials is also backing the Coalition of Burra Herders/Farmers Forum for massive felling of trees in the forests.
WikkiTimes also uncovered how the Coalition of Burra Herders/Farmers Forum led by Uba Ahmad, an Imam of JIBWIS Mosque in Burra which was initially formed to help farmers get more land allocations from the LGA for farming purposes turned into a surrogate body for the illegal land allocations.
At the end of its 2022 maiden State Executive Council meeting today, the Bauchi State Government proscribed all forms of activities, including farming in the protected forest.
Dr Asma’u Ahmed Giade, Commissioner of Tourism and Culture, said during a press briefing that the state government has received a report of illegal land allocations in the forest, adding that drastic measures would be taken to bring the perpetrators to book.
She said the Bauchi State Government would not renege in tackling land-related issues which often resulted in clashes between farmers and herders, as well as the destruction of lives and properties.
The commissioner warned that anyone found culpable would face the full wrath of the law to serve as deterrence to others.
