The Zaar Development Association (ZDA) Worldwide has expressed strong disapproval of the Muslim Rights Concern’s (MURIC) opposition to the establishment of the Sayawa Chiefdom in Tafawa Balewa, Bauchi State.
MURIC had labeled the proposed chiefdom as a “Christian Chiefdom,” a claim that ZDA argues is founded on misinformation, deceit, and propaganda.
According to ZDA, the Sayawa community comprises individuals of various religious backgrounds, with Christians constituting over 85% of the population, alongside Muslims and adherents of other faiths.
The association emphasized that the goal of the Sayawa Chiefdom is not to create a “Christian Chiefdom,” but to promote peaceful coexistence and inclusivity within the region.
Bauchi State’s Governor, Bala Mohammed, has been progressing towards the establishment of the Sayawa Chiefdom, with more than 70% of the work already completed. The chiefdom is anticipated to be finalized within six months, with its headquarters in Tafawa Balewa town.
ZDA views this development as a significant stride towards inclusivity and cultural recognition. The association pointed out that the establishment of the Sayawa Chiefdom will help balance the traditional structure of the state, akin to the arrangements in other Nigerian states like Kaduna, Gombe, Adamawa, and Nasarawa, which feature both Emirates and Chiefdoms representing diverse ethnic and religious groups.
ZDA also questioned MURIC’s opposition, asking which Muslim group MURIC is advocating for, especially since non-Sayawa Muslims in Tafawa Balewa, such as Prof. Salisu Shehu, have acknowledged that the chiefdom’s creation is necessary.
