Gombe Government Imposes Immediate Ban On Scrap Metal Trade Over Security Threats
The Gombe State Government has imposed an immediate ban on the scrap metal business, popularly known as Bola Jari, following growing concerns over its alleged involvement in the vandalism of public infrastructure across the state.
The decision was announced on Monday by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Zubair Muhammad Umar, after an expanded State Security Council meeting presided over by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
According to Umar, the council approved the ban after extensive deliberations revealed a strong link between the scrap metal trade and the destruction of public assets, particularly school facilities and other critical infrastructure. He described the move as part of a broader “decisive security set” introduced by the state government to reinforce internal security and protect public property.
In a related development, the state government has introduced a mandatory profiling policy in response to evolving national security challenges. Under the new directive, all persons seeking to relocate to or rent accommodation in Gombe State are required to submit their personal details for official documentation.
The Attorney-General explained that the measure is aimed at strengthening intelligence gathering and enabling security agencies to effectively verify the identities of residents within the state.
Addressing the recurring farmer-herder conflicts, Umar disclosed that an enforcement committee has been inaugurated to ensure the implementation of the government’s White Paper on Grazing Reserves and Cattle Routes, as part of efforts to promote peaceful coexistence.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Umar Ahmad Chuso, assured residents that security agencies have intensified operations in Akko Local Government Area following recent cases of abductions and killings in Pindiga. He confirmed that concerted efforts are ongoing to rescue abducted victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
