Bauchi community threatens to pull out of proposed Sayawa Chiefdom over disputes
Rauf Oyewole, Bauchi
Ayaa Community of Boi in Bogoro local government area of Bauchi State has threatened to dissociate from the proposed Sayawa Chiefdom which is at advanced stage of actualisation, over communal issues.
The Community however, announced its readiness to remain under the existing Bauchi Emirate.
The National Youth Chairman and Secretary of Boi Progressives Association, Jonas Munaka and Kalanyanta Kevin, in a statement, said that the group which exists under Boi Progressive Association aligned itself with the position of the Boi Council of Elders to remain under the existing Bauchi Emirate.
There has been controversy over the age-long Sayawa Chiefdom on where the Palace should be cited. Other issues like alleged plans to exclude some minority groups from the chiefdom.
Ayaa youths said that they stand with the decision of the elders who resolved to withdraw from the new chiefdom, saying that the decision reflects their collective aspiration to uphold their unique identity, heritage, and historical continuity.
“The decision to remain under the Bauchi Emirate is deeply rooted in our commitment to preserving our cultural heritage, which has been in existence for centuries.
“Our history as Ayaa people predates the establishment of formal traditional leadership structures, with our ancestors maintaining a distinct identity long before the formation of any chiefdoms.
“The traditional leadership of the Ayaa people was formally established in 1820 as a hamlet under Yakubun Bauchi and later elevated to a Village Area in 1882 under Sarkin Bauchi Hassan II. These historical milestones emphasize the deep ties between the Ayaa people and the Bauchi Emirate, an affiliation that has stood strong for over 143 years,” according to the group.
They added that the Boi Ayaa people have always supported the Zaar people in their long-standing quest for the creation of their Chiefdom, recognise and appreciate the efforts of the Governor Bala Mohammed in establishing the Sayawa Chiefdom as part of his commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and governance inclusivity.
“However, as clearly outlined in the modalities set forth by the Executive Governor, non-Sayawa-speaking communities were given the freedom to decide whether to join the new Chiefdom or not. In light of this provision, we, the Ayaa people, through our Council of Elders, have made a collective and well-informed decision to remain under the Bauchi Emirate, aligning with our historical and cultural realities.”
“While we respect the creation of the Sayawa Chiefdom, we earnestly appeal to Governor Mohammed to also consider our long-standing desire for a separate chiefdom for the Boi Ayaa people. We firmly believe that granting us this status will not only foster peace and stability but also create a conducive environment for economic growth, social development, and the preservation of our cultural heritage.
“As Ayaa youths, we proudly uphold our legacy and remain committed to working closely with the Bauchi Emirate, the State Government, and all stakeholders to advance our collective interests. We strongly endorse the letter written by our Council of Elders and once again commend Governor Mohammed for his efforts in addressing traditional leadership matters.”
