By Oso Abidemi
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has issued a stern warning to criminal elements, declaring that they will not be allowed to turn the state into a “theatre of insecurity.”
The warning came Thursday during the presentation of the 2026 budget proposal in Bauchi.
Governor Mohammed said his administration has invested heavily in security and stressed that anyone attempting to foment conflict would face the full weight of the law.
He also cautioned traditional rulers and government officials against harboring criminals, aiding banditry, or illegally selling government grazing reserves.
“Let me issue a very clear and unambiguous warning: Bauchi has sacrificed a lot to attain the current level of peace and stability. We will not allow criminal elements, by whatever name they call themselves, to turn our state into a theatre of insecurity,” Mohammed said.
The Governor urged emirs, village heads, and local government chairmen to act responsibly, warning that anyone found aiding or abetting criminals, or illegally disposing of land and forest resources, would be dealt with severely.
Mohammed also reiterated his administration’s commitment to combating illegal deforestation, mining, charcoal production, and preventing forests from becoming hideouts for bandits.
“We will continue to balance the needs of farmers, herders, investors, and future generations responsibly. But we will not allow any forest, mountain, or settlement in Bauchi State to become a sanctuary for criminal elements,” he added.
The Governor emphasized that citizens play a vital role in maintaining security, urging the public to provide information that would assist security agencies in keeping Bauchi safe.
