Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has officially signed into law two significant bills establishing 13 new emirate councils and the Zaar Chiefdom, a move aimed at deepening traditional governance and promoting inclusive representation across the state.
The laws, titled The Bauchi State Emirates and Chieftaincies (Appointment and Deposition) Law and Other Matters Related Therewith, 2025 and The Zaar Chiefdom Law and Other Matters Connected Thereto, 2025, were signed on Tuesday at the Government House in Bauchi.
Governor Mohammed described the development as a decisive step towards strengthening traditional institutions, enhancing unity, and ensuring that local communities have a greater voice in governance.
“This is not just about creating new emirate councils or a chiefdom,” the governor said. “It is about reaffirming our collective faith in inclusion, justice, and unity, while positioning Bauchi State for the next phase of development. With total submission to Almighty Allah, and with a deep sense of responsibility for the trust placed upon us, I hereby give my assent to the two laws.”
The newly approved emirates include Burra, Dambam, Darazo, Duguri, Gamawa, Giade, Toro, Warji, Ari, Jama’a, Lame, Bununu, and Lere, alongside the Zaar Chiefdom with its headquarters in Mhrim.
According to the governor, the creation of these emirates and chiefdom was in direct response to long-standing agitations from communities seeking recognition and identity.
“These were sincere expressions of identity, belonging, and yearning for recognition,” he explained. “It became necessary to update the structure of traditional governance to reflect modern realities — not to replace tradition, but to renew it and make it relevant to today’s needs.”
Governor Mohammed, however, cautioned against any attempt to politicise or disrupt the implementation of the new laws.
“Any person or group found inciting division, spreading misinformation, or attempting to disrupt public peace will face the full consequences of the law,” he warned. “Law enforcement agencies are fully empowered to act decisively in maintaining peace and order. Furthermore, any government official or traditional leader who acts contrary to the spirit of this reform will face appropriate disciplinary action.”
In addition to the emirate and chiefdom laws, the governor also signed the Bauchi State Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2025, and the Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme Law, 2025 — legislative measures expected to boost governance efficiency and welfare management across the state.
