The Bauchi State Government has sparked controversy with its recent move to create additional emirates, chiefdoms, and districts, with Governor Bala Mohammed inaugurating a 41-member committee to assess requests for new administrative units.
Though the move has been met with divergent views from residents, religious, and community-based organizations but the committee is tasked with identifying communities deserving of traditional institutions and proposing administrative frameworks for the newly created emirates or districts.
Sources suggest four additional emirates may be created, bringing the total to ten, with Duguri and Ganjuwa/Toro emerging as new emirates.
The Bauchi State Muslim Parliament and Zauren Mutanen Jihar Bauchi for example have expressed opposition, warning of potential negative consequences and questioning the motivations behind the move.
The Fulani community has rejected the plan, particularly the proposal to create Sayawa Chiefdom from Tafawa Balewa LGA, citing concerns over minority-led leadership.
In spite the opposition, Governor Mohammed’s administration insists the move aims to deepen local governance, enhance cultural identity, and strengthen traditional institutions.
*Reactions from Various Groups:*
Report has it that Bauchi State Muslim Parliament warned against it potential negative consequences and questioned the motivations behind the move.
The Zauren Mutanen Jihar Bauchi expressed concerns over fragmentation of Bauchi’s traditional institutions and potential far-reaching consequences.
Supporting the opposition, the Fulani Community rejected the plan, citing concerns over minority-led leadership and potential societal division.
Former Governor Isa Yuguda increased traditional domains from 39 to 193 in 2014-2015, which were later dissolved by his successor due to financial unsustainability and alleged political motives.
