By Akanji Alowolodu, Bauchi
The Emir of Lame in Toro Local Government Area Bauchi State, Alhaji Aliyu Yakubu Lame has been suspended by the State Government for alleged involvement in illegal land issues just as it approved the constitution of an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate allegations of misconduct against the Emir
The decision was approved by Sen. Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the Governor of Bauchi State.
It was following the receipt of multiple formal petitions and credible intelligence reports from community leaders, relevant stakeholders, and security agencies concerning alleged abuse of office, arbitrary exercise of authority, and other conduct considered inconsistent with the responsibilities and expectations of a traditional ruler.
The allegations against the Emir included unlawful interference in land administration, unauthorized collection of levies, undue interference in the operations of mining companies, and other alleged acts of misconduct.
These developments have reportedly generated tension within the Lame Emirate and raised concerns about the potential threat to public peace, security, and harmonious coexistence in the area.
“In line with the principles of natural justice, fairness, and the right to fair hearing, the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs formally requested explanations from the Emir regarding the allegations levelled against him,” the government stated.
The government, through the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Comrade Mukhtar Gidado, stated that, “Although the Emir submitted written responses, the government considered the explanations unsatisfactory and consequently determined that a comprehensive and independent administrative investigation was necessary to establish the facts and make appropriate recommendations.”
The government emphasized that the allegations remain subject to investigation and that the Emir shall be afforded the opportunity to respond to all allegations against him in accordance with the principles of natural justice and due process.
In exercising the powers conferred upon him by the Bauchi State Chieftaincy (Appointment and Deposition) Law 2026, His Excellency, the Executive Governor, has approved the measures in the overriding interest of peace, public order, and good governance.
A panel of inquiry has been constituted and mandated to undertake a thorough, impartial, and independent investigation into all the allegations against the Emir of Lame.
The panel is expected to examine the relevant petitions, documents, and evidence, invite concerned parties, afford the Emir a fair opportunity to defend himself, and submit its findings and recommendations to the government within three (3) weeks.
The panel comprises DIG Sani Mohammed (Rtd.) – Chairman while
Musa Mohammed Yankari (Rtd. Director, DSS), Representative of the Commissioner of Police, Representative of the Director, State Services, Representative of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Representative of the Ministry of Justice are Members.
Other members are: Representative of the Ministry of Environment (Director of Forestry), Representative of the Ministry of Natural Resources Development – Member, Representative of the Chairman, Toro Local Government Area, Representative of the Local Government Service Commission, Director of Chieftaincy Affairs, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs while Director of Administration and Human Resources, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs will serve as Secretary.
The suspension is a precautionary administrative measure intended to safeguard the integrity of the investigation, prevent possible interference with witnesses and official Emirate records, and reduce tensions within the community.
Throughout the period of suspension, the Emir is directed to remain within the Lame Emirate unless expressly authorized otherwise by the appropriate authority.
He is also directed to refrain from interfering in the administrative, traditional, and other official affairs of the Lame Emirate Council throughout the duration of the suspension.
To ensure continuity in the administration of the Emirate and prevent any disruption to traditional and community governance, the Senior Councillor of the Lame Emirate Council, Alhaji Bala Abubakar Gumau, (Galadiman Lame ) has been directed to oversee the day-to-day administrative affairs of the Emirate in an interim capacity pending the conclusion of the inquiry and further directives from the government.
The Bauchi State Government reiterated its unwavering commitment to upholding the sanctity , dignity, integrity, and accountability of the traditional institution across the state and therefore calls on the people of Lame Emirate, residents of Toro Local Government Area, community leaders, traditional titleholders, youths, and other stakeholders to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding and cooperative with the security agencies and the administrative panel throughout the period of the investigation.
