Police say Bauchi mayhem caused by rivalry
Umar Sanda, the commissioner of police for Bauchi state, has clarified rivalry between two youth groups precipitated the mayhem in the state on Friday night.
He also confirmed two people died from the clash and many others, injured. Five houses were torched as well as some vehicles.
“Preliminary investigation has revealed that the clash was between the two rival youth groups because of a lady. We are spreading our investigative tentacles to fish out the perpetrators of the clash and just as we did for those behind the Gudum Hausawa clash who are now in jail, same thing will be done with anyone found culpable here.
“The number of death is now two, many were injured, five houses completely burnt down, three cars and a number of motorcycles were also burnt down.”
The CP urged residents to tolerate religious diversity and maintain the peace. “God has a reason for creating us differently, Muslims and Christians, different tribes. We must tolerate one another for peace to reign,” he said.
At the same time, the state Governor Bala Mohammed has imposed a 24-hours curfew on the state to curb the violence from spreading.
In a statement Aminu Gamawa, the governor’s chief of staff, Governor Mohammed said the “government will not fold its arms and allow some criminal elements and their sponsors to disturb the hard-earned peace, security and harmony being enjoyed in Bauchi State.”
“The government has ordered a full-scale investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the disturbances and those found culpable will be dealt with according to the law.
“In view of the foregoing, a 24-hour curfew is hereby imposed in Yelwa and its environs, especially Lushi, Tsakani, Kagadama and Birshi Areas of Bauchi LGA. This action is not intended to cause hardship to people but to ensure the restoration of peace and order. The timings for the curfew will be reviewed from time to time as peace returns.”
He called on traditional rulers and religious leaders to always preach peace among their followers because according to him, that is their responsibility.
