Ongoing court cases require suspension of Bauchi new chiefdoms creations

In view of ongoing legal proceedings and the sensitive nature of traditional leadership issues in Bauchi State, we urge the state government to immediately suspend all actions by the committee established on July 4, 2025 to consider the creation of new chiefdoms or changes to traditional council structures—especially in areas currently under judicial review. Taking […]

In view of ongoing legal proceedings and the sensitive nature of traditional leadership issues in Bauchi State, we urge the state government to immediately suspend all actions by the committee established on July 4, 2025 to consider the creation of new chiefdoms or changes to traditional council structures—especially in areas currently under judicial review.

Taking such steps while key court cases remain unresolved would not only violate constitutional principles but could also reignite tensions in historically volatile areas like Tafawa Balewa. This is a time for caution, not haste.

Two major lawsuits are still before the High Court of Justice in Bauchi State, with possible appeals to the Federal Court of Appeal in Jos:

Suit No. BA/191/2011 – Hon. Barr. Bukata Zhyadi & 3 Others vs. Governor of Bauchi State & 15 Others

Suit No. BA/173/2012 – Alhaji Maigida Abdullahi (Sarkin Tafawa Balewa) & 4 Others vs. Baba Garba Vurmi & 7 Others

These cases stem from long-standing communal disputes in Tafawa Balewa, which has experienced repeated violence and displacement since 1959—often triggered by conflicts over chieftaincy titles, traditional boundaries, and ethnic identity.

According to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended):

Section 6(6)(b) gives courts exclusive authority over judicial matters.

Section 14(2)(b) states that the security and welfare of the people are the primary purpose of government.

Acting on issues that are still before the courts violates the doctrine of sub judice and undermines the rule of law. The Supreme Court of Nigeria, in Military Governor of Lagos State v. Ojukwu (1986), made it clear that no party—including government—may take unilateral action on matters under judicial consideration.

Creating new chiefdoms or altering traditional structures in disputed areas while these cases are pending could destabilize peace and undo years of conflict resolution efforts in southern Bauchi.

We recommend that the Bauchi State Government should immediately halt all discussions or actions related to new chiefdoms or traditional council changes in affected areas.

Security agencies and peacebuilding organisations must remain alert to prevent any actions that could disrupt communal harmony.

Traditional leaders, civil society groups, and community elders should support the legal process and promote peace-first governance.

The government must be reminded that any action taken in defiance of court proceedings may be declared invalid—and the consequences for peace and unity could be severe.

Let the courts decide. Let peace prevail.

 

Mukhtar Abubakar resides in Tafawa Balewa, Bauchi State