Tuesday, March, 3 2026 - The Otaru of Auchi, Haliru Momoh, has ordered the closure of a market popularly known as the Hausa Market, located at Igbira Camp in Idanilace Village of the locality.

The traditional ruler ordered the closure of the market following the alleged incessant kidnapping and other criminal activities in the community.

Igbira camp has continuously been in the news as one of the major hotspots for kidnappings in Auchi and its environs.

A statement signed by Kadiri Jeremiah Enaholo, Chairman, Palace Press, Auchi Royal Palace disclosed this in a statement posted on the Auchi Blog and Service Facebook page.

Enaholo said the decision was taken at a meeting convened at the Auchi Royal Palace, attended by the Otaru-in-Council and the Divisional Police Officer of the Auchi Police Division.

He said the decision is aimed at restoring peace, strengthening vigilance, and protecting residents of Auchi and its environs.

He said during the meeting that issues relating to growing security concerns within the community were discussed.

Enaholo listed the six-point resolutions taken at the meeting to include, discouragement of the payment of ransom, noting that the payment fuels criminal enterprise and endangers long-term community safety.

“Enforcement by Auchi Vigilante: The Auchi Vigilante Group is mandated to ensure strict compliance with this directive and other security measures adopted at the meeting.

“Residential Compliance Directive: All residents across Auchi are required to reside within recognised residential apartments. Individuals found loitering or refusing to secure proper accommodation are advised to comply immediately or vacate the community.

“Youth Mobilisation for Community Security: All able-bodied youths are encouraged to join the Vigilante Group to strengthen local security architecture and promote collective responsibility in safeguarding the community.

“Abolition of Ransom Payments: The meeting strongly resolved that the payment of ransom under any circumstance must be discouraged, as it fuels criminal enterprise and endangers long-term community safety.

“Movement Restriction Advisory: Residents, particularly those living on the outskirts of Auchi, are advised to be indoors not later than 6:00 p.m. daily. Additionally, all individuals are to avoid bush paths and isolated areas after 6:00 p.m. until further notice”, Enaholo added.

He opined that the Palace emphasised that the measures are preventive and protective in nature, adding that they are not targeted at any law-abiding individual or group but are necessary steps taken in the overriding interest of public safety and communal harmony.

He said the Auchi Royal Palace, urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and support ongoing efforts to preserve peace and stability within the kingdom.