Traditional Priest Condemns Suspension Of Lemb Zaar Festival

Chief Priest of Zaar Traditional Believe, Mr Mbami Iliya Sabka, has described the suspension of the Lemb Zaar festival by the Bauchi State Police Command as unconstitutional and an infringement on rights of freedom of religion.

He stressed that the suspension prevents Zaar traditional worshippers from freely associating and practising customs and beliefs.

In a letter he addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, he stated that the Lemb Zaar is a Protected Religious festival Practice.

“I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I write to you on behalf of the Gung Zaar Council for Zaar Kingdom to formally and intellectually respond to your press release dated September 27, 2024, regarding the suspension of the annual Lemb Zaar Traditional/Cultural Festival scheduled for November 2, 2024.

“This response is aimed at addressing the legal points concerning religious freedom and countering the stated security concerns.

Historical Context and Significance of Lemb Zaar.

“The Zaar (Sayawa) people have a rich and ancient history, with roots tracing back to ancient Yemen and a presence in the Tafawa-Balewa and Bogoro regions predating 1000 AD. The Lemb Zaar festival is one of our most significant cultural and religious events, marking the commencement of the harvest season,” he said.

Mr Sabka argued that the festival is a vital aspect of Zaar traditional beliefs, where rituals and prayers are offered to the gods of rains, land, and fruits, known as “Chong Fyali,” to ensure bountiful harvests and societal harmony.

He added that, “It is imperative to highlight that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and belief. According to Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), every individual is entitled to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, including the freedom to change their religion or belief and freedom (either alone or in community with others, and in public or in private) to manifest and propagate their religion or belief in worship, teaching, practice, and observance.”

LEADERSHIP recalls that the police had suspended preparations for this year’s Lemb Zaar citing internal rivalry among different groups over the hosting of the event and court cases. The suspension, according to the police, was temporal pending the outcome of the case in court.