Bauchi Emirs Sue For Calm Over Proposed Emirates, Districts

The Bauchi State Traditional Council of Emirs has called on residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding following the state government’s proposal to create additional Emirates, Chiefdoms and Districts in the state.

In a statement on Tuesday by its Chairman, Alh. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, the Council expressed concern over allegations that some unpatriotic citizens were planning to incite civil unrest to disrupt the exercise.

“In light of the recent publication regarding the above exercise, we have observed a range of comments both in support and against the initiative. It has come to our attention that there are allegations that some unpatriotic citizens are planning to incite civil unrest to disrupt the exercise,” the statement read.

The Council of Emirs emphasised that the matter falls under the prerogative of the government and called for collective responsibility in maintaining peace and stability.

“It is imperative that all parties cooperate, respect and adhere to the decisions made by the Government in the best interest of the state,” he said.

The Council urged citizens to channel their concerns or suggestions to the appropriate committee handling the exercise for proper consideration, stressing the importance of constructive dialogue and civil responsibility.

Emir of Bauchi also urged people to all work together to ensure a peaceful and orderly environment for the benefit of all.

“It is through constructive dialogue and cooperation that we can achieve progress and harmony within our community,” the statement concluded.

Recall that last Friday, Governor Bala Mohammed inaugurated a 41-member Committee saddled with the responsibility to review and assess all memoranda received from various communities seeking the creation of new Emirates, Chiefdoms and Districts in the state.

Inaugurating the committee at the Government House, Governor Mohammed said creation of new traditional institutions in the state was in fullfilment of his electioneering campaign promises since 2019 when he aspired for the Bauchi plum seat.

To this end, the governor explained that his administration has found it expedient and timely to revisit the issue in order to address the long standing demands and appeals by historical legitimacy, social equity and graps for consensus.

The traditional ruler said the intention of the government was not only in fullfilment of the political promises made, but also to deepen local governance, enhance identity, and strengthen the invaluable roles of traditional institutions as custodians of peace, unity and development.

Governor Mohammed further explained that it is in consonance with the established practice in the country in various states where the traditional institutions have been unbundled and provided data and statistics for development.

Mohammed also expressed regret that Bauchi has remained dormant in this regard since the creation of the state in 1976, stressing that traditional institutions serves as pillars of communal cohesion and catalyst for progress.

Hence, he proposed the expansion of such institutions through administrative units to consolidate building efforts, and foster inclusivity and empower communities to participate meaningly in governance.

“The rationale for the creation of new emirates, Chiefdoms and districts is grounded for consideration in the need for promotion of peace and progress, stability and development,” he said, stressing their roles in serving as catalyst for mobilisation towards communal and social development programmes, and fostering social cohesion, among others.