Jama’a Emirate Sallah durbar unites diverse tribes in Kafanchan

The Annual Sallah Durbar in Kafanchan, Jema’a Emirate of Kaduna State, once again proved to be a colourful spectacle of unity and tradition as the 11th Emir of Jama’a, Dr Muhammad Isa Muhammadu II, led a grand procession through the heart of the town. The event, which attracted thousands of well-wishers from different ethnic and […]

The Annual Sallah Durbar in Kafanchan, Jema’a Emirate of Kaduna State, once again proved to be a colourful spectacle of unity and tradition as the 11th Emir of Jama’a, Dr Muhammad Isa Muhammadu II, led a grand procession through the heart of the town. The event, which attracted thousands of well-wishers from different ethnic and religious backgrounds, marked the successful completion of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

Decked in regal Hausa traditional attire, the Emir rode on horseback accompanied by an entourage of royal horse riders, Hausa flutists, drummers, and dancers from Non-Hausa tribes. Their journey began at the Emir’s palace in Kafanchan, moving through Unguwan Rumada, Emir’s Road and Hospital Road, where crowds of jubilant residents thronged the streets, cheering and hailing the Emir and his entourage.

Beyond the glitz of the procession, the Emir’s visit held a deeper significance of compassion and unity. Dr. Muhammad Isa Muhammadu II made a ceremonial stop at Kafanchan General Hospital, now known as the Federal Medical Center, where he donated essential consumables and offered prayers for the patients. This tradition, inherited from his forebears, has continued to solidify the bond between the palace and the local populace.

Speaking at Sir Patrick Yakowa Memorial Hospital, the emir praised the Kaduna State Government under the leadership of Senator Uba Sani for its numerous developmental projects within the emirate. These include the completion of Kafanchan Township roads, reconstruction of Kafanchan Main Market, destroyed during the 2011 Post-presidential election violence, and the ongoing rural roads network across Jema’a Local Government Area.

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“I appreciate the governor’s efforts in promoting peace and unity among the diverse communities of the state,” the emir stated. He also appealed to the government to construct a new General Hospital for Kafanchan, since the existing facility has now been upgraded to a Federal Medical Center by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following persistent advocacy from stakeholders within the zone.

The Medical Director of Sir Patrick Yakowa Memorial Hospital, Dr. Yohannah Chika Paul, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the facility’s elevation to a Federal Medical Centre. “We have had challenges referring patients to Jos, Kaduna or Zaria for major treatments. Having a Federal Medical Centre here is a great relief,” Dr. Paul noted. He also appreciated the emir’s tradition of visiting the hospital during Sallah festivities, which he described as a longstanding practice aimed at fostering goodwill.

 

Celebration of unity amid diversity

The annual Sallah durbar is more than a display of royalty and pageantry; it is a symbolic gathering that unites people across religious and cultural divides. Christians and Muslims alike participated in the celebration, with housewives, marketers, youths and the elderly lining the streets to catch a glimpse of the emir and his entourage. The scenes of camaraderie, with greetings and blessings exchanged between well-wishers regardless of faith, showcased a community where tolerance and mutual respect thrive.

“This celebration is not only about Sallah, but also about reinforcing our shared values and identity,” noted Garba Maisukuni, Kuyambanan Jama’a, who has documented the festival for decades. “It is a moment when everyone, irrespective of tribe or religion, comes together to celebrate peace and continuity.”

The atmosphere in Kafanchan during the festival was vibrant. Traditional dance troupes from various ethnic groups, including the Koro from Kagarko Local Government Area, the Kaninkon from Jema’a Local Government Area, and Hausa flutists from Bauchi, added depth to the celebration. Their colourful attires, intricate dance moves, and melodious sounds enriched the event, drawing applause and admiration from the audience.

 

Call for development and improved healthcare

During his address at Sir Patrick Yakowa Memorial Hospital, the emir reiterated the need for a new General Hospital in Kafanchan. He acknowledged the efforts made by President Tinubu and other stakeholders in upgrading the facility to a Federal Medical Centre but emphasised that the demand for healthcare services continues to grow.

Dr. Yohannah Chika Paul, the hospital’s Medical Director, echoed the emir’s concerns. “While the elevation to a Federal Medical Centre is commendable, we still face challenges of inadequate infrastructure and personnel. We need more hands, better facilities and improved funding to meet the health demands of the populace,” he said.

 

Cultural harmony takes centre stage

The inclusion of various ethnic groups in the celebration further solidified the emir’s message of unity. Performances from the ‘Yan Rawan Baya of the Kaninkon tribe, masquerade dancers from Kagarko and Hausa musicians all contributed to an atmosphere of cultural diversity and harmony.

The Executive Chairman of Jema’a Local Government Area, Peter Tanko Dogara, lauded the emir’s efforts at fostering unity. “The emir’s commitment to peace and inclusivity is evident in the way this festival is celebrated. It brings people together and strengthens bonds that might otherwise fray,” he remarked.

 

Political leaders pledge support

Hon. Ali Kalat, Minority Leader representing Jema’a Constituency in the Kaduna State House of Assembly, expressed his commitment to continuing quality representation. “I am here not just to celebrate but to listen and learn from the people. It is my duty to ensure their voices are heard in the Assembly,” he stated.

Similarly, Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani, represented by his Counsellor on Political Matters, Ado Dogo Audu, emphasized the importance of traditional rulers in achieving peace and development. “All the successes our government achieves are due to the peaceful atmosphere and the support we receive from traditional rulers,” he noted.

The durbar ended with the emir returning to the palace through Zaria Street, where district heads and traditional title holders paid homage before prayers were held as customary.

The annual Sallah durbar continues to serve as a unifying occasion for the diverse tribes and religious groups within the emirate, reflecting a shared heritage of coexistence and mutual respect.