In response to widespread looting of government and private property in Gombe State, the State Security Council has instructed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Zubairu Umar, to develop regulations for scrap dealers, commonly known as ‘Yan Jari bola’. Protesters have been utilizing these dealers to sell off looted items.
Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Njodi, announced this at the Council Chamber of Gombe State Government House. The meeting, convened by Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, aimed to assess the aftermath of the violent protests.
Njodi explained that despite earlier efforts by the governor to engage with stakeholders and address their concerns, protests erupted across the state on August 1.
“The council has made several resolutions to address future incidents and commends security agencies for maintaining order during the protests,” Njodi stated. He also praised the governor for stabilizing the situation, visiting affected areas, and assessing the damage to recommend necessary government support.
While acknowledging the role of scrap dealers in facilitating the sale of looted items, Njodi emphasized the need for regulation. “Council noted public concerns regarding scrap sellers and directed the Attorney General to develop operational guidelines for their activities in Gombe State,” he said.
He also urged parents to caution their children against engaging in criminal activities and stressed the importance of community efforts in combating crime. “Security is everyone’s responsibility, and citizens should volunteer information about their communities,” Njodi added.
Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Usman, highlighted that while peaceful protests are permitted, proper procedures must be followed. “Protesters must notify the police and discuss their grievances and routes to ensure protection from infiltrators,” Usman explained. He emphasized that the police, following directives from Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, managed to contain the situation professionally despite the protests turning violent.
Usman concluded, “Lawful protests are allowed, but we do not tolerate hijacking them for violent purposes. We appreciate the support of Gombe residents in restoring normalcy.”
