The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has cautioned the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala AbdulKadir Muhammad, against establishing a Christian chiefdom, known as Sayawa Chiefdom, with its proposed headquarters in Tafawa Balewa Township.
In a statement released early Thursday, MURIC’s Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, described the move as an act of injustice against the Muslim community in Tafawa Balewa, who he said have been victims of significant religious violence in the area.
Akintola criticized the governor’s declaration, stating that it lacked inclusivity and failed to consider the concerns of the Muslim population.
“Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala AbdulKadir Muhammad, recently declared his intention to create the Sayawa Chiefdom with its headquarters in Tafawa Balewa Township,” Akintola said.
“MURIC frowns upon this declaration as it implies that the governor has disregarded the advice of the Muslim community on this issue. Good governance requires extensive consultation before making such a critical decision. This declaration is provocative, parochial, and prebendal. It suffers from a desertification of inclusivity,” he added.
MURIC called on Governor Muhammad to reconsider his decision and ensure that the interests of all religious groups in Bauchi State are fairly represented and respected.