‘Cemeteries are sacred’ — Gov Lawal bans farming on Zamfara burial grounds

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has prohibited farming in all cemeteries across the state with immediate effect.

The governor announced the decision during an inspection of a cemetery in Gusau, saying the cultivation of crops on burial grounds would no longer be permitted.

He also directed that any crops already planted in cemeteries should be cleared without delay.

“Any person found farming inside a cemetery will have their crops destroyed immediately,” the governor warned.

Lawal said the order takes immediate effect and applies to all 14 local government areas of Zamfara State.

According to him, cemeteries are sacred places meant to preserve the dignity and memory of the deceased, and using them for farming disrespects both cultural and religious values.

The governor called on traditional rulers, community leaders and relevant government agencies to enforce the directive and educate residents about the new policy.

His office also said monitoring teams would be deployed across the state to ensure the ban is fully enforced.