Hadejia Emirate To Honour Fighters Killed In British Campaign

The Hadejia Emirate in Jigawa State has fixed Saturday, April 25 to honour the resistance of the emirate against British conquest in 1906, during which over 800 warriors were martyred alongside the Emir, Muhammad Maishahad.

The Senior Councillor and Galadima of Hadejia, Alhaji Usman Abdulaziz, revealed this while briefing newsmen on the preparations for the 120th year commemoration of the fall of Hadejia to the British army.

He noted that the incident, which happened over a century ago, remains a source of pride to every average son of Hadejia (Bahadeje) for the lesson and inspiration it carries.

According to the Galadima, who is also the chairman of the organising committee, the three years of resistance (1903-1906) demonstrated by Hadejia against the invaders showed the faith and sacrifice they had in defending their culture, dignity, religion, and territorial integrity of their Emirates.

“The battle symbolised how leaders and their people share a common belief and are ready to pay the ultimate price in defending their land against any aggression, even from a superior power,” he said.

“The battle of 1906 holds a lesson that we can apply today in confronting the security, social, and economic challenges afflicting the country.”

“With faith, confidence, and trust between leaders and citizens, any challenge can be overcome, no matter how critical or strong it is,” Alhaji Usman stated.

The Galadima further explained that the three-day commemoration will feature special prayers for the fallen heroes, the commissioning of a historical museum, and visits to the battle ground site on Friday, 24th April.

“The grand ceremony includes the launch of a book titled ‘A Century History of Hadejia Resistance to Colonial Invasion’, Durbur (royal horse riding), and a display of the rich cultural heritage of the Emirates on 25th April,” the Galadima revealed.

He added that adequate preparations have been made to receive dignitaries and other spectators from across the world during the commemoration.