Sayawa Chiefdom Crisis: Ayaa Community’s Exit Sparks Fresh Uncertainty
By Abdulwahab Muhammad Bauchi
The ongoing struggle over the Sayawa Chiefdom in Bauchi State has taken a new twist, with the Ayaa community officially opting out and pledging allegiance to the Bauchi Emirate. This development, following a similar decision by the Boi community in Bogoro LGA, casts fresh doubts over the viability of the newly established Sayawa Chiefdom.
In a strongly worded statement, the Ayaa youths, under the Boi Progressive Association (BPA) National Youths Wing, reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Bauchi Emirate. They cited deep historical ties and cultural continuity as the basis for their decision. The statement, signed by Comrade Jonas Munaka and Comrade Kalanyanta Kevin, emphasized that the Ayaa people have coexisted with the Bauchi Emirate for over 143 years, dating back to 1820 when their traditional leadership was formally established.
Ayaa's Stand: Loyalty to Bauchi Emirate but Agitation for Self-Rule
While distancing themselves from the Sayawa Chiefdom, the Ayaa people reiterated their support for the Zaar people’s struggle for self-rule. However, they made it clear that their ultimate aspiration is to have their own separate chiefdom rather than being merged under the Sayawa structure.
"We recognize and appreciate the efforts of His Excellency, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, in establishing the Sayawa Chiefdom as part of his commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and governance inclusivity," the statement read.
"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."
The Ayaa youths further appealed to Governor Bala Mohammed to consider their long-standing demand for an independent Boi Ayaa Chiefdom, arguing that such a move would foster peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Implications for the Sayawa Chiefdom
The withdrawal of the Ayaa community, coming shortly after the Boi elders took a similar stance, raises serious questions about the future of the Sayawa Chiefdom. With two major communities opting out, the chiefdom’s territorial and political strength appears weakened. The risk of further fragmentation looms, as other non-Sayawa groups within the area might reconsider their positions in light of these recent developments.
The Bauchi State government now faces a tough decision. Will it reconsider its strategy and accommodate the growing demand for more chiefdoms, or will it hold firm on its original plan, hoping to solidify the Sayawa Chiefdom despite dissent?
Government’s Dilemma: Maintain or Reassess?
Political observers believe the state government may now have second thoughts about its approach. The fear of setting a precedent where every community begins to demand its own chiefdom could make the government hesitant to approve the Ayaa people’s request. On the other hand, ignoring their demand might breed resentment, potentially undermining peace efforts in the region.
For now, the Ayaa community remains resolute in its decision, urging its people to stay united, peaceful, and proactive in engaging relevant authorities to secure a future that aligns with their aspirations.
As tensions mount, all eyes remain on the Bauchi State government. Will it reconsider its traditional leadership framework to accommodate emerging realities, or will it stand its ground and push forward with the current structure? The coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the future of traditional governance in Bauchi State.