Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has ordered 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 11 year old girl.
The governor announced the decision during a visit to Lamurde and five affected communities in Suwa District, where he assured residents that the panel would conduct an open, fair, and comprehensive investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the killings and ensure justice for the victims.
Governor Fintiri appealed for calm among residents, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to due process, accountability, and the rule of law. He disclosed that the Adamawa State Peace Commission had been engaging youths, elders, religious leaders, and community stakeholders in the affected areas to ease tensions and promote a peaceful resolution of the crisis.
Describing the killing of women during the protest as deeply unfortunate, the governor said the victims were innocent and defenceless. He explained that the judicial panel, to be chaired by a retired High Court judge, would examine both the immediate and remote causes of the incident and make recommendations aimed at reconciliation and lasting peace.
The governor assured families of the victims that the state government would provide support, including assistance with education and livelihoods. During the visit, he inspected damaged areas in the communities and pledged increased security deployment to protect lives and property and prevent further violence.
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Governor Fintiri also revealed that the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency had been mobilised to provide relief materials and humanitarian assistance to displaced persons. He stressed that security challenges would not hinder the government from delivering support to those affected by the crisis.
Emphasising that peace remains the only viable path forward, the governor said his administration would continue to work with all stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community members, to promote dialogue, understanding, and mutual trust. He expressed confidence that calm would soon return to Lamurde as reconciliation efforts gained momentum.
Speaking on behalf of the affected communities, the District Head of Lamurde, Pwahomakai Joseph, alongside Napwamwa Istifanus, recounted how the crisis began and appealed to the state government to intervene decisively to ensure lasting peace between the Bachama and Chobo communities.
Residents of Lamurde, encouraged by assurances of a transparent investigation, enhanced security, and sustained engagement, expressed hope that justice, reconciliation, and renewed trust would help restore lasting peace in the area.
