Bauchi To Strengthen Traditional Institution With New Village Heads

Bauchi State government is set to appoint new village heads across the state as part of a broader plan to strengthen the traditional institution and promote inclusivity.

Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed said his administration is determined to avoid mistakes in the process, stressing that the newly created emirates must operate with fully functional councils in line with the law.

Speaking at the end of a stakeholders’ engagement on the realignment of traditional institution yesterday at the Government House, Bauchi, the governor recalled that district heads had been appointed and were currently discharging their responsibilities.

He explained that the next phase involves appointing village heads, whom he described as critical stakeholders in grassroots leadership, particularly in the region.

“Today, we have reached a critical stage in the ongoing realignment of our traditional institutions. As part of the powers conferred on me, we are undertaking the major exercise of appointing village heads across the 20 emirates in the state, following the expansion of our traditional structures,” he said.

The governor noted that the exercise would adopt a bottom-up approach to respect traditions and inheritance systems, adding that many prospective candidates have been groomed over time.

He added that in areas affected by population growth and demographic expansion, competent and widely accepted community leaders would also be considered in consultation with traditional rulers and local communities.

Governor Mohammed directed the emirates to submit nominations, which will be reviewed by relevant authorities, including the Local Government Service Commission under the supervision of the Secretary to the State Government.

He further disclosed that consultations would be held with at least ten stakeholders in each local government area, representing diverse interests, to ensure fairness and broad-based representation.

Describing the exercise as delicate, the governor acknowledged that concerns had been raised. Still, he noted that democratic values, including restraint in the use of executive powers, guide the state.

He warned that excessive discretion could lead to conflict, stressing the need for extensive consultations to ensure that no leader is imposed on any community.

“We must also be mindful of the prevailing security challenges. We cannot afford to appoint individuals who may compromise the safety of our people. Therefore, thorough scrutiny is essential to ensure that only credible and responsible individuals emerge as village heads, he said.

Governor Mohammed commended the role of local government chairpersons, noting that they are effectively carrying out their delegated responsibilities.

He urged political leaders and stakeholders to remain non-partisan, emphasising that the process must be fair, transparent, and sustainable.

Bala reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusivity and consensus-building. He also assured that all submissions would be carefully reviewed, while stressing the importance of discipline and loyalty within the traditional leadership structure to strengthen grassroots governance.