By Babafemi Solanke
The Gombe State Government has given reasons for ordering immediate closure of local nightclubs, popularly referred to as ‘Gala Houses’ within the state.
The State Governor, Mohammed Yahaya, said the development became necessary following the complaints of citizens over incessant immoral, criminal activities and security breaches across the state.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Njodi, on Monday, 28 August, 2023.
According Njodi, the enforcement of its closure will reduce incessant immoral, criminal activities and security breaches being perpetrated in such nightclubs.
The SSG added that governor Yahaya has, consequently, ordered the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Civil Defence Corps and the Operation Hattara to mobilise their personnel to effect the directive and ensure strict compliance.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the affected Gala Houses are: Jami’a Gidan Wanka located at Mile 3 Yola Road, Gombe, White House Theatre (Babban Gida) located at New Mile 3 Yola Road, Gombe; Gidan Lokaci General Merchant located at Mile 3 Reservoir Road, Gombe and Farin Gida Entertainment II located at Wuro Karal, Kalshingi Road, Gombe.
“Others are: Gidan Zamani Entertainment New Mile 3, Yola Road, Tumfure, Gombe; Albarka Entertainment Located at Wuro Karal, Bypass near Hara Form, Gombe; Gala Houses Located at Kuri Town, Lubo village and Kurba village all in Yamaltu Deba Local Government Area.
“Also affected are Tauraren Wash located at Trailer Park, Bauchi Road, Gombe and Gala House located at Bajoga Town in Funakaye Local Government Area,” Njodi’s statement partly read.