The Bauchi State Police Command has announced the suspension of the annual Lemb Zaar Traditional/Cultural Festival, scheduled for 2nd November 2024, due to security concerns.
The decision comes in light of ongoing tensions and leadership conflicts within various factions of the Zaar (Sayawa) community.
In a press statement issued by SP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, the Police Public Relations Officer, the Bauchi State Police explained that the suspension was necessary to maintain peace and prevent further violence.
Wakili said the Zaar Development Association (ZDA) meeting slated for 28th September 2024 has also been suspended.
The police cited a violent incident on 15th September 2024 between two factions of the Zaar Youth Development Association (ZAYODA), which resulted in significant property damage and injuries.
A prompt police intervention prevented the situation from escalating further.
The tensions stem from longstanding rivalries among different Zaar groups, including the Zaar Development Association (ZDA) and the Coalition of Zaar Development Associations.
According to the police, intelligence reports indicated an imminent threat of violent clashes as both groups had scheduled simultaneous meetings at the ZDA Secretariat in Tafawa Balewa.
The Police Commissioner, CP Auwal Musa Muhammad, explained that the decision to suspend the events was in the interest of public safety and aimed at preventing further unrest.
He urged community leaders, parents, and guardians to counsel their youth against engaging in disruptive activities that could jeopardize the fragile peace in the state.
He further assured that anyone found guilty of inciting violence would be arrested and prosecuted.
The suspension of the ZDA meeting and the Lemb Zaar Festival will remain in effect until pending legal disputes among the Zaar factions are resolved by the courts.
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