Bauchi gov optimistic of actualising Sayawa Chiefdom

Bauchi State Governor, Sen. Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, has expressed optimism that his administration will successfully establish the long-awaited Sayawa Chiefdom from the Bauchi Emirate.

The Governor made this statement during the submission of the report by the State Government’s Committee tasked with investigating the creation of the Sayawa Chiefdom. The submission took place at the EXCO Chambers of the Governor’s Office on Wednesday.

A few months ago, Governor Bala Mohammed inaugurated the Committee, chaired by Mr. Haruna Mandabs, to explore the best approach for the establishment of the Sayawa Chiefdom. This included investigating succession arrangements, the roles of other tribes in the Chiefdom, its demographics, and its geographical boundaries.

Upon receiving the report, the Governor thanked the Committee for completing its task and assured the public that the state government would adopt an inclusive, understanding, and persuasive approach in establishing the Chiefdom. He emphasized the importance of ensuring equity, balance, and harmony among the Sayawa community and neighboring tribes.

Governor Mohammed further pledged to consult with Sayawa stakeholders to review the Committee’s recommendations and address the long-standing disputes surrounding chieftaincy in the area.

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He called for support from all relevant parties, stressing that the government’s goal is to resolve the persistent conflict over chieftaincy in Sayawa.

“We will study the report and swiftly implement it. Our objective is to create a Chiefdom where peace will prevail forever,” the Governor said. He also revealed plans to convene a Stakeholders’ meeting of at least 100 people to define the Chiefdom’s structure, its system of installation, and succession arrangements in the event of death, deposition, or incapacitation.

Governor Mohammed emphasized that the process would be transparent and fair, allowing any eligible person to contest for the stool, including the current claimant. “We do not have a preference for who emerges, but we want to ensure due process is followed,” he added.

The Governor expressed gratitude to the Bauchi Emirate Council for its support of the Chiefdom’s creation and for agreeing to locate the seat in Tafawa Balewa town.

In his remarks, Committee Chairman Haruna Mandabs outlined that the committee visited Plateau, Kaduna, and Nassarawa States to learn from their experiences in managing community disputes involving multiple tribes. He thanked Governor Bala Mohammed for entrusting the committee with the task and expressed hope that the recommendations would help restore peace and unity in the Sayawa Chiefdom. Mandabs also praised the committee members for their dedication and hard work in completing their assignment.