Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has signed three Executive Orders into law.
The Governor signed the Orders presented by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Hassan Yaqub SAN, at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House on Friday.
DAILY POST reports that Executive Order No. 1 of 2024 titled Community and Environmental Protection, addresses community and environmental protection, public safety, and the prohibition of deforestation.
It prohibits traditional and community leaders from issuing consent letters for excavation activities or signing Community Development Agreements without state government approval through the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Violations of this Order will result in penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
The Executive Order No. 3 of 2024 titled Removal of Illegal Structures; targets the removal of illegal structures in Bauchi State.
The order bans the issuance of permits along road corridors, green areas, rights of way, utility areas, or setbacks by any state ministries, parastatals, or local government councils. Offenders face imprisonment or fines.
Shortly after signing the Orders, Governor Bala Mohammed stated, “I will not hesitate to take strong measures against those who breach the law. Anyone found sabotaging the state’s security in any way will be dealt with rigorously to serve as a deterrent.”
The other Orders are: “An Executive Order to maintain a standard and Unified method of Measurement (Mudu) across the state as part of my leadership responsibilities and An Executive Order for the removal of illegal structures and buildings in the state’s road corridors, which have been encroached upon, posing security and environmental implications.”
According to him, “As my administration remains committed to revamping the state’s security, building modern markets, and enhancing the welfare of our citizens, anyone found sabotaging or violating these laws will face the consequences.”
“I call for continued collaboration with stakeholders, specifically traditional institutions and religious groups. I also warn tree fellers and charcoal sellers to refrain from encroaching upon forests and trees, as my administration is resolute in addressing deforestation,” he added.
On illegal structures, Mohammed said the Government has identified over 50 different places within the Bauchi metropolis and environs where all those affected would be relocated to continue their businesses without hindrances.
He requested continued support and understanding from the people of the state, stressing that his administration means well for the development of the state to an enviable status in the country.
Bauchi Governor, Mohammed signs three Executive Orders into law