Zamfara State Governor Approves Reinstatement Of Suspended Emir

Zamfara State Governor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has given the green light for the Emir of Yandoto, Aliyu Garba Marafa, to return to his post. The Emir was previously suspended after granting a traditional title to Ado Aleiru, a bandit leader.

The title of Sarki Fulani was given to Aleiru due to his critical role in the peace process between the emirate and bandits who had been terrorising Tsafe Local Government Area. This decision created public outrage, prompting the government to investigate the matter.

On April 23, 2023, the Secretary of the State Government, Kabir Balarabe, stated that the Emir’s reinstatement was based on the recommendations of the investigation committee, which cleared him of any wrongdoing. The committee did not find any evidence of malicious intent or cooperation between the Emir and the bandit.

Instead, the traditional title was bestowed as part of a peace initiative between the repentant bandit and communities affected by banditry in Tsafe and Gusau Local Government Areas, including Yandoto town. The statement announced that the Emir’s reinstatement would take effect immediately.