The Zamfara State Government has approved the re-opening of seven weekly markets that were closed earlier this year to address rising cases of banditry and terrorism in the state, however, livestock trading is still banned in the state.
This was disclosed in a statement by the state Governor, Bello Matawalle on Monday, in Gusau, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
The Governor disclosed that the re-opening was necessitated by the return of normalcy in some parts of the state.
What the Governor is saying
Governor Matawalle said, “This is to inform the general public that following reports of sanity in parts of the state, and series of requests by members of the public, the government has considered and approved reopening of the following weekly markets, beginning from Monday, Nov. 1, 2021.
“The markets include; Nasarawar Burkullu Market, Bukkuyum local government area; Talata Mafara market, Talata Mafara local government area and Gusau market, Gusau local government area.
“Others are, Shinkafi market, Shinkafi local government area; Kasuwar Daji market, Kaura Namoda local government area; Nasarawar Godel market, Birnin-Magaji local government area and Danjibga market, Tsafe local government area.”
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He also urged residents to desist from carrying weapons into the markets and no person should be seen attacking or threatening anybody in the name of whatever group or organisation.
“Security agencies are, by this notice, directed to ensure that people carry out their lawful businesses within and around the markets, without harassment or intimidation,” he added.
What you should know
Zamfara state which is one of the most heavily affected states of banditry has implemented methods that restrict movements of trade and people which would be utilized by bandits.
In September, Nairametrics reported that the Nigerian Communications Commission announced the shutdown of all telecom operations sites in Zamfara to deal with the rising insecurity.
The Federal Government earlier this year announced a ban on mining in the state and disclosed that the mining ban in Zamfara would only be lifted if the security situation in the state improves.