Sayawa Chiefdom: Ayaa community opts out, choose to remain in Bauchi Emirate, wants own chiefdom in future

By Akanji Alowolodu, Bauchi

The creation of the much sought after Sayawa Chiefdom in Bauchi State from the Bauchi Emirate has suffered another setback as people of Boi in Bogoro Local Government Area, one of LGAs that makeup the Chiefdom have opted out pledging loyalty to Bauchi Emirate.

The latest development is coming from the Ayaa Community which declared unequivocally that it will continue to exist under the Bauchi Emirate as it is now until it is able to get its own self rule.

The Youths of the community in a statement jointly signed and made available to Journalists by Comrd Jonas Munaka, Boi Progressive Association National Youth Chairman and Comrd Kalanyanta Kevin, National Youth Secretary, contained that, “We, the united and resolute youths of the Ayaa community, under the distinguished umbrella of the Boi Progressive Association (BPA) National Youths Wing, hereby reaffirm our unwavering support for the decision of the Boi Council of Elders to remain under the Bauchi Emirate.”

It will be recalled that on 10th February 2025, the Boi Council of Elders made a clear and categorical declaration that the Boi community will not be part of the Sayawa Chiefdom but will instead continue its long-standing association with the Bauchi Emirate Council.

They stated that, “As Ayaa youths, we stand in full support of this decision, which reflects our collective aspiration to uphold our unique identity, heritage, and historical continuity.”

According to the duo, “The decision to remain under the Bauchi Emirate is deeply rooted in our commitment to preserving our cultural heritage, which has been in existence for centuries.”

The statement further contained that, “Our history as Ayaa people predates the establishment of formal traditional leadership structures, with our ancestors maintaining a distinct identity long before the formation of any chiefdoms.”

“The traditional leadership of the Ayaa people was formally established in 1820 as a Hamlet Head under Yakubun Bauchi and later elevated to a Village Area in 1882 under Sarkin Bauchi Hassan II. These historical milestones emphasize the deep ties between the Ayaa people and the Bauchi Emirate, an affiliation that has stood strong for over 143 years,” They narrated.

They added that,”For the records, the Boi Ayaa people have always supported the Zaar people in their long-standing quest for the creation of their Chiefdom. We recognize and appreciate the efforts of His Excellency, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (CON), in establishing the Sayawa Chiefdom as part of his commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and governance inclusivity.”

They stressed,”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 Youths added that,”While we respect the creation of the Sayawa Chiefdom, we earnestly appeal to Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed to also consider our long-standing desire for a separate chiefdom for the Boi Ayaa people. We firmly believe that granting us this status will not only foster peace and stability but also create a conducive environment for economic growth, social development, and the preservation of our cultural heritage.”

“As Ayaa youths, we proudly uphold our legacy and remain committed to working closely with the Bauchi Emirate, the State Government, and all stakeholders to advance our collective interests. We strongly endorse the letter written by our Council of Elders and once again commend Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed for his efforts in addressing traditional leadership matters,” The statement further contained.

The Youths called upon all Boi Ayaa youths to remain united, peaceful, and proactive in championing the cause of the community.

They stressed that,”Our determination to protect our cultural and historical identity remains unshaken, and we will continue to engage constructively with relevant authorities to secure a future that aligns with our heritage and aspirations.”