Bauchi Group Kicks Over Placement Of District Under Zaar Chiefdom

The Boi Solidarity Group has faulted the recent creation of new Chiefdoms and Districts in Bauchi State, raising concerns over the placement of the newly created Boi District under the Zaar (Sayawa) Chiefdom.

In a press statement signed by its spokesman, David Mark Rabo, the group acknowledged and appreciated the elevation of the Village Head of Boi to the status of District Head, describing the move as a recognition of the historical relevance of the Boi, also known as Ayaa people.

The group also welcomed, in principle, the creation of Boi District, noting that it aligns with the long-standing demand of the Boi people for administrative recognition and improved grassroots development.

However, the group strongly rejected the reported placement of the Boi District under the Zaar Chiefdom, insisting that such an arrangement does not reflect the collective will of the Boi community.

According to the statement, the Boi people never consented to being subsumed under the Zaar Chiefdom, alleging that the decision was influenced by a few politically self-serving individuals rather than the general interest of the community.

The group said it had consistently expressed its opposition through memoranda, petitions, public hearings and official correspondence to relevant authorities, but lamented that its concerns were allegedly ignored.

It further recalled that Governor Bala Mohammed had earlier provided an option for minority communities to determine their preferred traditional alignment through a referendum, noting that the Boi people were denied the opportunity to exercise that choice.

The statement also raised concerns over the absence of a clear and official government pronouncement confirming that Boi District is under the Zaar Chiefdom, saying the lack of clarity has fueled confusion and agitation within the community.

While reiterating its support for the creation of Boi District, the group stressed that the district must not be placed under the Zaar Chiefdom, maintaining that the Boi people have a distinct history, identity and traditional structure.

The Boi Solidarity Group called on the Bauchi State Government, the State House of Assembly and other relevant stakeholders to urgently resolve the issue through dialogue and engagement with the legitimate representatives of the Boi people.

The group concluded by reaffirming its commitment to peaceful advocacy, dialogue and the pursuit of justice, transparency and self-determination for the Boi, Ayaa people.