Bauchi Former Commissioner Denies Claim APC Candidate Plans To Abolish Emirates

Former Bauchi State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Umar Ibrahim Sade, has dismissed allegations that the APC governorship candidate, Barr. Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar (SAN), plans to abolish the newly created emirates and chiefdoms in the state if elected governor in 2027.

Sade described the reports as false, misleading, and politically motivated, adding that they were designed to create unnecessary tension and suspicion around traditional institutions in Bauchi State.

He stated that there is no official statement, manifesto, or policy document from Abubakar or the All Progressives Congress indicating any intention to scrap emirates, chiefdoms, districts, or remove traditional rulers.

Speaking with journalists in Bauchi, Sade said Abubakar is a firm believer in constitutional governance and fully understands the legal framework that established the existing traditional structures.

“M.A. Abubakar, SAN, understands constitutional governance and the legal framework that established the existing traditional institutions. Any suggestion that he plans to abolish them is entirely false and misleading,” he said.

Sade stressed that traditional rulers remain indispensable in maintaining peace, resolving disputes, preserving cultural heritage, and providing community-based intelligence support for security operations.

He warned that at a time when Nigeria is battling insecurity, farmer-herder clashes, and communal conflicts, any attempt to weaken traditional institutions would be counterproductive.

“At a time when the country is grappling with insecurity, farmer-herder conflicts, and communal disputes, weakening traditional institutions would be counterproductive,” he added.

The former commissioner further noted that Abubakar’s political philosophy is anchored on strengthening institutions rather than undermining them, particularly those that support peace and development at the grassroots.

He urged political actors and stakeholders to focus on issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, rather than circulating unverified claims capable of heating up the polity.

Sade also assured residents that Abubakar’s governance vision for Bauchi State includes reinforcing traditional institutions to enhance stability, peace, and development across communities.