Bauchi Reforms Traditional System as Governor Bala Signs New Chieftaincy Laws
By Mubarak Aliyu kobi
Bauchi State has taken a bold step in reforming its traditional system as Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed signed into law two major bills — the Bauchi State Emirates and Chieftaincies (Appointment and Deposition) Law 2025 and the Zaar Chiefdom Law 2025.
Governor Bala described the development as a new chapter in Bauchi’s history, saying the reforms aim to modernize traditional governance, promote fairness, and strengthen unity among diverse communities.
He noted that the initiative was guided by wide consultation and the recommendations of the Hamza Koshe Akuyam Committee, which reviewed community requests from across the 20 local government areas.
The Governor emphasized that the creation of new Emirates and Chiefdoms was not a political move but a policy decision meant to bring governance closer to the people and accelerate local development.
Among the newly established Emirates and Chiefdoms are Burra, Dambam, Darazo, Duguri, Gamawa, Giade, Toro, Warji, Ari, Jama’a, Lame, Bununu, Lere, and Zaar Chiefdom with its headquarters at Mhrim.
Governor Bala warned individuals and groups against politicizing or undermining the reform, stressing that any attempt to cause division would be met with firm government action.
He also signed two additional laws — the Supplementary Appropriation Law 2025 and the Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme Law 2025 — aimed at strengthening fiscal and social structures in the state.
While commending the State House of Assembly and all stakeholders for their cooperation, the Governor said the reforms will ensure greater inclusion and harmony ahead of Bauchi’s 50th anniversary.
He called on citizens to support the newly created traditional institutions, describing them as partners in promoting peace, development, and good governance across the state.
