Bauchi State Revokes Farmland Allocations in Aliya, Yautare Grazing Reserves

By Our Reporter

The Deputy Governor of Bauchi State, Rt. Hon. Auwal Mohammed Jatau, has announced the immediate revocation of all farmland allocations in the Aliya and Yautare Grazing Reserves, both located in Darazo Local Government Area.

Speaking during a press briefing in Bauchi, the Deputy Governor explained that the decision followed the findings and recommendations of a high-powered committee set up by the state government to investigate the recent crisis between farmers and herders in the area.

Rt. Hon. Jatau stated that the Aliya Grazing Reserve covers 42,000 hectares, while the Yautare Grazing Reserve spans 41,000 hectares. Both areas were originally declared forest reserves in 1953 and later converted into grazing reserves through a Bauchi State Government Gazette in 1986, making them state-owned properties.

He explained that, in response to growing demands for farmland to enhance food security and to resettle farmers displaced by the Darazo Ecological Project, Governor Bala Mohammed had earlier approved the dereservation of 2,500 hectares each from the two grazing reserves.

However, according to the Deputy Governor, “the implementation of the allocation process was marred by irregularities which resulted in the over-allocation of lands, extending far beyond the approved areas. This situation became the major cause of the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders, leading to the destruction of farmlands, loss of properties, and even lives.”

He disclosed that after reviewing the committee’s report, the government resolved to revoke all farmland allocations within the two grazing reserves with immediate effect.

“Farmers who have not yet harvested their crops will be allowed to do so for this farming season,” he said, “but they must vacate the areas thereafter permanently.”

Rt. Hon. Jatau further stated that the initial approval of 2,500 hectares each for farmland use within the reserves will be reviewed and reallocated in line with due process to ensure fairness, transparency, and lasting peace in the affected communities.