By Muhammad Mamman
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has appointed his elder brother, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed, as the first Emir of the newly created Duguri Emirate, sparking both celebration and debate across the state.
The appointment, announced on Friday, follows the state government’s decision to upgrade Duguri District — located in Alkaleri Local Government Area — to a full-fledged emirate, a move officials say aims to bring traditional governance closer to the people and promote cultural preservation and local development.
Alhaji Adamu Mohammed, a respected community leader and retired civil servant, hails from the royal family of Duguri and is well known for his role in local peacebuilding and community initiatives. Supporters of the governor have hailed his appointment as “well deserved”, describing him as a man of integrity and experience.
However, the decision has also drawn mixed reactions, with some critics questioning the propriety of appointing a family member to such a powerful traditional position. Opposition voices argue that the move could raise concerns about nepotism and fairness in the process of selecting traditional rulers.
The Bauchi State Government, in response, maintained that the appointment followed due consultation with traditional kingmakers and community stakeholders, insisting that Alhaji Adamu’s selection was based on merit and his deep ties to the Duguri people.
Governor Bala Mohammed congratulated the new emir, urging him to use his new role to unite the people, foster development, and uphold the cultural values of the Duguri Kingdom.
The creation of the Duguri Emirate is part of a broader plan by the Bauchi State Government to decentralise traditional institutions and strengthen grassroots administration across the state’s diverse communities.
The new emir is expected to be formally turbaned in a colourful ceremony that will attract dignitaries, traditional rulers, and political leaders from across the country.
