Middle Belt leaders ask Haruna to review Monarch's sack
The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has called on the Adamawa State Governor, Boni Haruna to reverse the dethronement of the paramount ruler of Bachama, Hamma Bachama in the interest of equity and fairness.
After a meeting in Abuja, the MBF advised the people of the Middle Belt geo-political zone to be more security conscious to ensure their protection in the face of growing religious fanaticism and excesses against them.
Noting that the Bachama was removed without regard for administrative process and rule of law, the group said that the decision should have been taken only after an administrative or judicial inquiry had found him guilty.
In a statement, the MBF National Chairman, Chief Isaac Shaahu and publicity Secretary Chief George Ohemu, described as regrettable the use of the ruler as a scapegoat and political experimentation.
While praising Haruna for the "exemplary, prompt and responsive action" in quelling the Numan crisis, the association asked him to remain vigilant as the area had become a religious flash point.
Shaahu, however, expressed concern over the highhandedness of the governor over the removal of the Bachama without due regard and respect for administrative process and the rule of law. He was optimistic about the peaceful resolution of the crisis since the governor had ordered a stoppage of further construction work on the contentious towering mosque overlooking the chief's palace.
"Furthermore, to equally appease all parties in the interim and provide hope and level playing ground for all stakeholders, the meeting strongly recommends that Governor Haruna should without hesitation demonstrate a sense of justice, equity and fairness by redressing the situation without fear or favour".
The forum, therefore, asked him to ensure that the families of all those who lost their relations and property are adequately compensated.
