Bauchi Traditional Council Urges Calm Over Proposed Emirates, Chiefdoms

Bauchi State Traditional Council of Emirs has appealed to residents of the state to remain peaceful and law-abiding over the state government’s proposal to create additional emirates, chiefdoms and districts in the state.

In a press release yesterday, signed by the chairman of the council, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, he expressed concern over allegations that some unpatriotic persons 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 a civil unrest to disrupt the exercise,” the statement read.

The council said the proposal falls under the government’s prerogative and called for collective responsibility in maintaining peace and stability.

Adamu, who is the emir of Bauchi added that, “It is imperative that all parties cooperate, respect and adhere to the decisions made by the government in the best interest of the state.”

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.

He urged the people to ensure a peaceful and orderly environment that benefits everyone.

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

Recall that last Friday, the state governor, Bala Mohammed, inaugurated a 41-member committee charged with reviewing and assessing all Memoranda requests received from various communities seeking the creation of new emirates, chiefdoms, and districts in the state.

Inaugurating the committee at the Government House, Governor Bala Mohammed said the creation of the new traditional institutions fulfilled his electioneering promises, which dated back to 2019, when he aspired for the office.

To this end, the governor explained, his administration has found it expedient and timely to revisit the issue to address the long-standing demands.

He said that the government’s intention is not only to fulfil the political promises made, but also to deepen local governance, enhance identity, and strengthen the invaluable roles of traditional institutions.

Bala 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.

Governor Bala expressed regret that Bauchi has remained dormant in this regard since the creation of the state in 1976, stressing that traditional institutions serve as pillars of communal cohesion and catalyst for progress, hence the expansion of such institutions through administrative units to consolidate efforts, and foster inclusivity and empower communities to participate meaningfully in governance.

Governor Bala Mohammed defended his administration’s move to establish new emirates, chiefdoms, and districts, describing it as a strategic effort to foster peace, stability, and development across Bauchi State.

According to the governor, the initiative aims to serve as a catalyst for mobilising communities towards social and economic development, enhancing social cohesion, and promoting inclusive governance.

He outlined the terms of reference for the newly constituted committee, which include receiving, appraising, and evaluating memoranda from communities seeking the creation of new traditional institutions. The committee will work based on clearly advertised criteria and assess the historical and political merit of each request.

However, LEADERSHIP reports that the state government’s decision has sparked mixed reactions. While some stakeholders welcome the development as a step towards grassroots empowerment, others remain staunchly opposed, raising concerns over its timing and potential political implications.