Garizegu (N/R), April 2, GNA - Some residents of Garizhegu who deserted their homes following the murder of their chief, about two weeks ago, have returned home, while socio-economic activities are becoming normal. The place was declared a 'ghost town' after security officers arrested some suspects in the murder of Naa Yakubu Andani, chief of the town, in a swoop. During the operation, some young men fled to nearby towns. Mr. Sulemana Haruna Hussein, the Northern Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education, (NCCE) who led a delegation of institutions to the area, on Thursday, expressed appreciation to the people for returning peace but urged those who were still away to return home. He advised the people to continue to live in peace through their socio-economic activities and report any breaches to the security agencies keeping peace in the area.

He expressed contentment that schools and clinics had reopened. Mr. Hussein urged the people of the area, especially the youth, to exercise restraint in dealing with misunderstandings and allow the law to work in line with the rule of law.

Some of the people complained that thieves had stolen their personal effects and livestock while they were gone. They appealed to the Police and the Judiciary to expeditiously screen the 46 persons arrested so that innocent persons were not punished. All the suspects are still on remand after their court appearance. Meanwhile, houses burnt during the incident are yet to be rehabilitated.