Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed
By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
The Joint Assembly of Christian Lawyers and Journalists (JACLJ) has commended Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, for his decision to create the Sayawa Chiefdom and site its headquarters in Tafawa Balewa town.
In a statement released after their meeting on December 21, 2024, the group described the Governor’s move as a “bold and commendable step” in resolving a three-decade-long issue that has defied solutions by previous administrations.
“This bold step taken by the Governor of Bauchi State has been applauded by a cross-section of Nigerians, particularly ethnic groups and peace-loving citizens, who view the move as a commendable effort to bring lasting peace and development to a marginalized people,” the group stated.
The JACLJ also emphasized the importance of unity, urging critics of the decision to avoid personal attacks and seek redress through appropriate channels. They referenced the Governor’s statement from a December 9 meeting with stakeholders, where he declared, “After due consultation, conviction, and persuasion, the Headquarters of the Sayawa Chiefdom shall be cited in Tafawa Balewa town.”
While acknowledging the concerns raised by some groups, the JACLJ stressed that controversies over the location of the headquarters were unnecessary and counterproductive. “There is no need for criticism of the Governor, who is the Chief Security Officer of the state and has acted in the interest of peace and stability,” they noted.
The group further appealed to religious leaders, traditional rulers, and interest groups to avoid inciting divisions in Bauchi State, which has enjoyed relative peace under Governor Mohammed’s administration.
“We call on all aggrieved parties to sheath their swords and seek for redress, if any, from the appropriate quarters. Let us focus on what unites rather than what divides us,” the statement added.
The decision to create the Sayawa Chiefdom is seen as a significant milestone in addressing the aspirations of the Sayawa people, with stakeholders urged to prioritize peace and development in the region.
