No evidence: Zamfara reinstates suspended Emir linked to bandit Aleiru

The Zamfara State Governor, Bello Muhammad, has approved the reinstatement of the Emir of Yandoto, Aliyu Garba Marafa, who was suspended for his alleged links to a bandit in the state.

The sacking of Marafa followed the conferment of a traditional title on a renowned bandit kingpin, Ado Aleiru.

About 10 months into his suspension, a probe panel set up by the government, stated that there was no evidence of any link between the Emir and Aleiru.

Consequently, a statement by the Secretary to the State  Government, Kabiru Balarabe on Sunday announced the reinstatement.

The statement reads, “This is to inform the public that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, (Shatiman Sokoto), has approved the reinstatement of Alh. Aliyu Garba Marafa as the Emir of Birnin Yandoto.

“His reinstatement is based on the recommendations of the Committee constituted to investigate all issues pertaining to the conferment of a traditional title to a repentant bandit, Ado Aleiru.   The committee found no evidence of any ill motive or collaboration between the Emir and the bandit.

“Based on the findings of the committee, the traditional title was conferred on the repentant bandit as part of peace building efforts between the repentant bandit and banditry-affected communities in Tsafe and Gusau Local Government Areas, which include Yandoto town.

“The reinstatement takes immediate effect.”