Christians, Muslims clash Over Location of Chiefdom Headquarters in Bauch

Muslim and Christian groups in Bauchi State are in disagreement over the decision to establish the headquarters of the proposed Sayawa Chiefdom in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area.

Governor Bala Mohammed announced the creation of the Sayawa Chiefdom on December 9, 2024, with the headquarters set to be located in Tafawa Balewa village, within the Bauchi Emirate.

However, the decision has sparked controversy. The Bauchi State Muslim Parliament (BSMP) has criticized the move, calling it unfair and a violation of historical and administrative processes. The BSMP contends that Tafawa Balewa, a predominantly Fulani community, is an inappropriate location for the headquarters, suggesting instead that Bogoro would be a more suitable choice.

Speaking on behalf of the BSMP, Mallam Yusuf Abdullahi accused the governor of ignoring recommendations and urged for the relocation of the headquarters to ensure fairness. He argued that the decision ignored historical facts, lacked due process, and was not in line with principles of equity and good governance.

Yusuf further emphasized that the coalition of Muslim organizations in Bauchi State supports the establishment of the chiefdom’s headquarters in any location other than Tafawa Balewa, citing the displacement and loss of property suffered by the original Muslim inhabitants of the area. He called for fairness and justice for the Muslim community in Tafawa Balewa.

In contrast, the Assembly of Jesus Army Guard, a Christian organization, defended the governor’s decision, asserting that Tafawa Balewa is the ancestral home of the predominantly Christian Zaar (Sayawa) people. The group accused the BSMP of promoting divisive and unconstitutional claims, asserting that Nigeria, as a secular nation, should not allow one group to dominate others.

Bishop O.T. Daniel, leader of the Assembly of Jesus Army Guard, called for fairness and equal treatment of Christians in Nigeria, highlighting long-standing issues of inequality, particularly in resource allocation. He urged global Christians to support the Zaar people and advocate for the protection of their rights.