By Baban Khalid
The Bauchi State Traditional Council of Emirs has called on residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding following the state government’s proposal to create additional Emirates, Chiefdoms, and Districts in the state.
In a press release yesterday personally signed by Chairman of the Bauchi State Traditional Council of Emirs, Alh. (Dr) Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, expressed concern over allegations that some unpatriotic citizens are 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 of and against the initiative. It has come to our attention that there are allegations that some unpatriotic citizens are planning to incite civil unrest to disrupt the exercise,” the statement read.
The Bauchi State Traditional Council of Emirs, emphasised that the matter of state administration fall under the prerogative of the government and called for collective responsibility in maintaining peace and stability.
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.
The Emir of Bauchi also urged people to all work together to ensure a peaceful and orderly environment for the benefit of all.
“It is through constructive dialogue and cooperation that we can achieve progress and harmony within our community,” the statement concluded.
Recall that on last Friday the state Governor Bala Mohammed inaugurated 41-member Committee saddled with the responsibility for 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 that the creation of new traditional institutions in the state was in fullfilment of his electioneering campaign promises dating back to 2019, when he aspired for the Bauchi plum seat.
To this end, the governor explained, his administration has found it expedient and timely to revisit the issue to address the long-standing demands and appeals by historical legitimacy, social equity, and grasps for consensus.
He said that the government’s intention is not only in fullfilment of the political promises made but also to deepen local governance, enhance identity, and strengthen the invaluable roles of traditional institutions, for people matter as custodians of peace, unity, and development.
Senator 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 and provided data and statistics for development and distribution of takeawaysfrom the federation account in terms of the number of emirates, districts, and villages.
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 catalysts for progress; hence, the expansion of such institutions through administrative units to consolidate building efforts, foster inclusivity, and empower communities to participate meaningfully in governance.
Governor Bala added, “The rationale for the creation of new emirates, chiefdoms, and districts is grounded for consideration in the need for promotion of peace and progress, stability and development, their roles to serve as catalysts for mobilization towards communal and social development programmes, and fostering social cohesion, among others.
He gave the terms of reference of the committee, which were to receive, appraise, and evaluate memoranda from communities seeking the creation of emirates, chiefdoms, and districts based on publicly advertised criteria and to assess the historical and political validity of such claims or requests.
Our correspondent reports that the state government’s move continues to stir controversy, with some factions expressing support while others strongly oppose it.
