Bauchi Suspends Emir Over Illegal Levies, Mining Interference Allegations

The Bauchi State Government has suspended the Emir of Lame, Alhaji Aliyu Yakubu Lame, over allegations of unauthorised levy collection, interference in land administration and meddling in the operations of mining companies.

The suspension, which took immediate effect, was approved by Governor Bala Mohammed pending the conclusion of an investigation by a 12-member Administrative Panel of Inquiry.

The governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, announced the decision in a statement on Saturday, November 14, 2026.

According to the statement, the government received several formal petitions and intelligence reports from community leaders, stakeholders and security agencies concerning alleged abuse of office, arbitrary exercise of authority and other misconduct by the traditional ruler.

The government said the alleged activities had generated tension within the Lame Emirate and raised concerns about public peace, security and peaceful coexistence in the area.

Gidado explained that the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs had earlier requested explanations from the Emir. Although the traditional ruler submitted written responses, the government considered them unsatisfactory and decided to establish an independent panel to investigate the allegations.

The panel is chaired by retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Sani Mohammed, and includes retired Director of the Department of State Services, Musa Mohammed Yankari, alongside representatives of security agencies, relevant ministries, Toro Local Government Area and other government institutions.

It has been given three weeks to examine petitions and relevant documents, invite concerned parties and submit its findings and recommendations to the state government.

The government described the suspension as a precautionary administrative measure intended to protect the investigation, prevent possible interference with witnesses and official records, and reduce tensions within the emirate.

During the suspension, the Emir has been directed to remain within the Lame Emirate unless authorised otherwise. He has also been instructed not to interfere in the administrative, traditional or official affairs of the Emirate Council.