Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has announced the establishment of a judicial panel of inquiry to investigate the December 8 shooting incident in Lamurde Local Government Area that claimed the lives of ten women and an eleven-year-old girl.
The Governor made this known during a visit to Lamurde town and five affected communities in Suwa District, where he met with residents, traditional leaders, and families of the victims. He assured the communities that the investigation would be transparent, impartial, and thorough, stressing that justice must be served.
Gov Fintiri appealed for calm, assuring residents that the state government is committed to due process and accountability. He disclosed that the Adamawa State Peace Commission has already been engaging youths, elders, clergy, and community leaders from the affected areas as part of ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and restore peace.
Describing the killing of women during the protest as deeply unfortunate, the Governor said the victims were innocent and defenseless. He revealed that the judicial panel will be headed by a retired High Court judge and will investigate both the immediate and remote causes of the crisis. The panel will also make recommendations aimed at reconciliation and achieving lasting peace.
Gov Fintiri assured families of the deceased that the state government would provide support to those left behind, including assistance for education and means of livelihood. During the visit, he inspected damaged areas and promised an increased security presence to safeguard lives and property.
He further disclosed that emergency response agencies, including the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), are already on ground to support displaced persons. He emphasized that security challenges would not deter the government from delivering relief materials and humanitarian assistance.
The Governor reiterated that peace has no alternative, stressing that the government would continue to work with all stakeholders, including religious leaders and well-meaning individuals, to promote dialogue, understanding, and mutual trust. He expressed confidence that peace would soon return to the area as communities embrace reconciliation.
Speaking on behalf of the affected communities, the District Head of Lamurde, Pwahomakai Joseph, alongside Napwamwa Istifanus, narrated how the crisis began and appealed to the state government to intervene decisively to achieve lasting peace between the Bachama and Chobo communities.
With assurances of a transparent investigation, enhanced security measures, and sustained dialogue, residents of Lamurde are now looking to justice, reconciliation, and cooperation as the path toward restoring peace and rebuilding trust among the affected communities.