The paramount ruler of the Zaar-Sayawa ethnic group, Gungzaar-select, Air Commodore Ishaku Komo (retd), has urged farmers to exercise caution with their produce, warning against the risks of hastily selling their crops.
Speaking at the annual Lemb Zaar cultural festival, held over the weekend in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Komo expressed gratitude for the season’s success, reminding them that the harvest is a blessing that must be managed carefully.
Acknowledging a successful harvest season, Komo urged the farmers to be wise to avoid food insecurity.
“We prayed earlier this year for rain, relying on God Almighty, and our prayers were answered. Now we have a good harvest. My people, I urge you not to sell your crops unnecessarily. Use them wisely, as selling could bring hunger to our land,” he advised.
DAILY POST reports that the Bauchi State Police Command had initially announced the suspension of the festival, scheduled for November 2, 2024.
Spokesman of the command, SP Ahmed Wakil, in a statement issued before the event, explained that the suspension was based on a restraining order from a High Court, issued on October 30.
However, hundreds of residents defied the court order as they flocked to the venue of the colourful event to celebrate the annual harvest celebration.
The festival, which is in honour of their ancestors, was also held to mark the start of the harvest season.
Addressing insinuations that the festival will be marred by violence, the traditional leader expressed joy at the peaceful turnout of the event, attributing it to his people’s trust in God.
He prayed for more peace in Zaarland, Bauchi State, and Nigeria as a whole.
Komo also thanked the Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, Auwal Mohammed, for ensuring adequate security around the venue of the event.
He pledged his loyalty and support to the Bauchi State government, highlighting his commitment to fostering peace, progress, and development in the region.
He said that Zaarland is a blessing not only to Bauchi State but to the entire country.
The traditional leader assured the government of continued support from the Zaar people while calling for the development of the area economically, socially, and politically.
He expressed regret that some had misunderstood the significance of the Lemb Zaar festival and tried to prevent it but thanked God for allowing the celebration to proceed.
He also emphasised the importance of unity among his subjects, encouraging efforts to mend any rifts within the community.
Don’t sell your farm produce in haste — Bauchi monarch cautions farmers