Zamfara state governor, Bello Matawalle has approved the suspension of Atiku Abubakar, emir of Zurmi, over his alleged involvement in banditry.

The suspension came hours after the attack on Kadawa village in Zurmi local government of the state, where more than 90 persons were reportedly killed by bandits.

Speaking to newsmen, the acting secretary to the Zamfara state government, Kabiru Balarabe said the governor has on Saturday set up a committee to investigate the traditional ruler’s alleged links with bandits.

He also disclosed in a statement that those in the committee include former deputy governor, Ibrahim Wakkala (chairman); Mukhtar Ahmad Anka; former Zamfara state house leader, Faruku Musa.

Representatives of the Police, the DSS and the NSCDC are also members, while Alhaji Musa Shinkafi, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Security and Home Affairs, will serve as Secretary.

The committee is expected to report all its findings after three weeks.

The statement further added that Alhaji Bello Suleiman (Bunun Kanwa) is to take charge of the Affairs of the Emirate with immediate effect.

The suspension of the Emir makes it the third time, a traditional ruler is suspended in Zamfara state over alleged involvement in banditry and killings of citizens.

The Emir of Dansadau, Alhaji Hussaini Umar and the District Head of Nasarawa Mailayi, Alhaji Bello Kiyawa, had earlier been suspended over the same issue.

It can also be recalled that earlier in May, protesters burnt a section of the palace of the Emir of Zurmi, lamenting that security agents and the Emir, Atiku Abubakar, were not doing enough to protect the lives of citizens in the area.

Alhaji Balarabe also revealed that Zamfara state Governor Matawalle had urged communities in the state to rise and defend themselves against all forms of attacks.

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