No Room For Criminality, Bauchi Governor Tells Security Council

Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State has described security as a shared responsibility involving security agencies, traditional institutions, and citizens in any society.

Mohammed stated this yesterday at the opening session of the Expanded State Security Council meeting held at Government House Council Chamber, which included traditional rulers and selected members of the State Executive Council.

The governor urged members of the State Security Council to speak frankly, listen attentively and ensure that every meeting ends with clear goals, shared understanding, and renewed commitment to sustaining relative peace in the state.

He noted that the meeting was taking place at a time when Nigeria is facing complex and formidable security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, criminal tensions, cross-border criminal movements, misinformation, and other opportunistic crimes.

“These challenges are no longer isolated. They are mobile, adaptive, interconnected, and driven by a mix of global influences and local grievances. No state is immune, and no single institution can address these threats alone,” he said.

The governor urged participants not to be distracted by political rumours, stressing the need for total focus and zero tolerance for all forms of criminality.

He outlined issues that must not be tolerated, including the sale or allocation of land without due process, government approval, or legal documentation; harbouring or protecting suspected criminals, either deliberately or through negligence; and interference with local security operations or the misuse of traditional authority to legitimise illegal acts.

Governor Bala assured security agencies and other council members of the state government’s readiness to provide the necessary logistics to enable them to discharge their duties effectively.

He further emphasised the need for close coordination between security agencies and traditional leaders, particularly through divisional commanders, noting that traditional rulers play a vital role in community security and intelligence gathering.

Bala Mohammed commended traditional rulers for their collaborative efforts in safeguarding lives and property and for preventing crises that could arise from rumour-mongering or political tensions.

He described the moment as an opportunity for traditional authorities to demonstrate unity and responsible leadership, showing that traditional institutions remain an effective force in community governance.

Governor Bala also reaffirmed his belief in federalism and respect for federal authority, stressing that governance cannot function without recognised authority.

“Without you, there is no governance,” he said, underscoring the critical role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and stability.

Bala reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to proactive security management and conflict prevention.

Governor Bala Mohammed observed that although Bauchi State remains relatively peaceful, sustained vigilance is essential. He emphasised the need for effective intelligence-sharing among security agencies and community leaders, particularly in forest reserves, markets, and densely populated areas, warning that minor criminal activities could escalate if left unchecked.

The meeting, which brought together traditional rulers, security chiefs, and senior government officials, focused on forest surveillance, seasonal population movements, the protection of public spaces, and the strengthening of grassroots reporting mechanisms across the state.