The Bauchi State Government has suspended the Emir of Lame, Yakubu Aliyu, over allegations of illegal levy collection, interference in land administration and meddling in mining operations.
The suspension takes immediate effect and will remain in place until the conclusion of an investigation by a 12-member Administrative Panel of Inquiry set up by Governor Bala Mohammed.
The governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, announced the development in a statement on Saturday, noting that the panel would probe allegations of abuse of office and other misconduct against the traditional ruler.
Gidado said the government received several formal petitions and intelligence reports from community leaders, stakeholders and security agencies over the emir’s alleged activities.
According to him, the complaints had heightened tensions within the Lame Emirate, prompting concerns over public peace, security and harmonious coexistence.
“The allegations against the Emir include unlawful interference in land administration, unauthorised collection of levies, undue interference in the operations of mining companies, and other alleged acts of misconduct,” the statement read.
The government’s spokesperson explained that the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs had previously sought explanations from Aliyu regarding the allegations, in compliance with the principles of natural justice and fair hearing.
He said the emir submitted written responses but the government found them unsatisfactory, leading to the decision to establish an independent panel to examine the allegations.
“The government emphasises 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,” he stated.
The panel is headed by retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Sani Mohammed, with a retired Director of the Department of State Services, Musa Mohammed Yankari, and representatives of the police, DSS and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps as members.
Other members include representatives of the state ministries of Justice, Environment and Natural Resources Development, Toro Local Government Area and the Local Government Service Commission.
The committee has three weeks to submit its findings and recommendations to the state government.
Gidado said the suspension was aimed at ensuring a credible investigation and preventing any attempt to influence the process.
“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,” the statement added.
As part of the conditions of the suspension, Aliyu was directed to remain within the Lame Emirate unless he obtains approval from the appropriate authority.
The monarch was also prohibited from interfering in the administrative, traditional or official activities of the emirate council throughout the period of suspension.
Meanwhile, the Senior Councillor of the Lame Emirate Council, Bala Abubakar, popularly known as Galadiman Lame, has been appointed to oversee the council’s daily affairs in an interim capacity.
The state government said the arrangement would ensure uninterrupted administration of the emirate while the investigation continues.
It also appealed to residents, community leaders, traditional titleholders, youths and other stakeholders to remain peaceful and law-abiding, reaffirming its commitment to accountability and the preservation of traditional institutions in the state.
