The Bauchi State Government’s initiative to establish new emirates, chiefdoms, and districts has ignited a significant debate among residents, drawing varied reactions from religious and community groups.
Just last Friday, Governor Bala Mohammed inaugurated a 40-member committee charged with overseeing the creation of these new administrative units.
This development follows closely on the heels of a public call for memoranda on the matter, issued less than a month ago.
The newly formed committee is headed by Alhaji Hamza Koshe Akuyam from Misau LGA, with Alhaji Ahmed Ali Ranga, Permanent Secretary for Political Affairs in the SSG’s Office, serving as secretary. Co-secretaries include Alhaji Shehu Yahaya Jalam (Permanent Secretary, Special Services), Alhaji Auwal Shehu Jalo (Permanent Secretary, Local Government Service Commission), and Alhaji Mohammed Ali Manti (Director, Chieftaincy Affairs, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs).
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Governor Mohammed, speaking at the inauguration, explained that the decision to create these new units was a direct response to campaign promises and mounting demands from various communities across the state.
He said, “The government found it expedient and timely to revisit the issue. This initiative seeks to address long-standing demands underpinned by historical legitimacy, social equity, and grassroots consensus.
“Our intention is not just to fulfill political promises but also to deepen local governance, enhance cultural identity, and strengthen traditional institutions as promoters of peace, unity, and development. Historically, traditional institutions in Bauchi State have served as pillars of communal cohesion and agents of progress.
“Expanding these institutions through new administrative units will consolidate peace-building efforts, foster inclusivity, and empower communities to participate meaningfully in governance. The rationale includes promoting peace and stability, mobilising for community development, preserving identities, and preventing communal clashes rooted in unresolved grievances.
“It also supports self-determination, ensures socio-political balance, and offers proactive conflict-prevention mechanisms to address the scars of past clashes and manage our diversity through justice and inclusion.”
