The Katsina State Government has suspended some forestry officials and a traditional leader over alleged forest encroachment in the Ingawa Local Government Area.
The sanctions followed a complaint by Kautal Ja’onde Jam, a prominent Fulani socio-cultural association, alleging encroachment into designated cattle routes, grazing reserves, and other vital forest areas.
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The association said the development was affecting pastoralists and risked igniting conflict with crop farmers.
A preliminary fact-finding team of the Secretary to the Government of the State, Abdullahi Faskari, local officials and security representatives confirmed the allegation.
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It said a significant portion of the Bai forest in Manomawa village had been cleared for agricultural purposes during the current farming season.
The investigation also unearthed “disturbing evidence of irregular allocation processes,” implicating the village head of Manomawa, the zonal forestry officer for Kankia, Shuaibu Gambo, and the unit head of Forestry for the Ingawa Local Government Council, Saidu Danjuma.
Consequently, Governor Dikko Radda approved measures to prevent an escalation of tensions often associated with such land disputes.
According to a statement by the government, the include:
“Immediate suspension of the Zonal Forestry Officer, Kankia Zone, and the Unit Head of Forestry, Ingawa Local Government Council, to allow for a thorough and unhindered investigation.
“Directed the State Ministry of Environment to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the activities of the Zonal Forestry Officer, Kankia Zone, take appropriate disciplinary action where necessary and report back.
“Directed the Local Government Service Commission to investigate the conduct of the Unit Head of Forestry, Ingawa LGA, and take. appropriate disciplinary action where necessary and report back.
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“Direct the Katsina Emirate Council to investigate the alleged involvement of the Village Head of Manomawa and take appropriate disciplinary action where necessary and report back.”
The government said it is committed to safeguarding public and community resources, emphasising the importance of accountability and transparency across all levels of governance.
It vowed to take decisive action against any activities that could ignite conflict between farmers and herders.
Encroachment on traditional cattle routes and grazing reserves often cause disputes between nomadic pastoralists and sedentary farming communities.
