Adamawa Crisis: Fintiri to set up judicial panel

Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa says he would establish a judicial panel of inquiry to investigate the Dec. 8 shooting incidents in Lamurde Local Government Area.

The incident, which occurred in Lamurde and five affected communities in Suwa District, reportedly led to the death of 10 women and an 11-year-old girl.

Fintiri disclosed this on Tuesday, during a visit to the affected areas in Lamurde LGA.

He assured residents that the panel would conduct an open, fair and thorough investigation to establish the facts and ensure justice for the victims.

He appealed for calm, stressing that the state government remained committed to due process, accountability and the protection of lives and property.

The governor said the Adamawa State Peace Commission had been engaging youths, elders, clergy and community leaders from the affected areas to de-escalate tensions and restore peace.

Describing the killing of women during the protest as tragic and unacceptable, Fintiri noted that the victims were innocent and defenceless.

He said the judicial panel to be chaired by a retired High Court judge, would probe the immediate and remote causes of the incident.

He added that the panel would make recommendations to promote reconciliation and lasting peace.

The governor assured families of the victims of government support, including assistance for education and livelihoods as well as increased security presence.

He said that agencies such as SEMA and NEMA were already on ground to support displaced persons, noting that security challenges would not deter the provision of relief and humanitarian assistance.

Speaking on behalf of the communities, the District Head of Lamurde, Pwahomakai Joseph, appealed for decisive government intervention to achieve lasting peace between the Bachama and Chobo communities.

He expressed confidence that a transparent investigation, sustained dialogue and reconciliation would help restore peace and rebuild trust in the area.