Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has signed into law the Chieftaincy Appointment and Deposition Law, paving the way for the creation of 13 new emirates and over 111 district heads across the state.
The newly enacted law aims to strengthen traditional governance, promote inclusivity, and bring leadership closer to grassroots communities.
Governor Mohammed also assented to the repeal of the Sayawa Chiefdom Law and the enactment of the Zaar Chiefdom Law, establishing the Zaar Chiefdom with its headquarters at Mhrim Namchi in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area.
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In addition, the governor signed the Local Government Pension Contributory Scheme and the 2025 Appropriation Supplementary Act, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to clearing pension backlogs and funding ongoing developmental projects.
The newly created emirates include Burra (Burra), Duguri (Yuli), Dambam (Dambam), Bununu (Bununu), Lere (Lere), Darazo (Darazo), Jama’a (Nabardo), Lame (Gumau), Toro (Toro), Ari (Gadar Maiwa), Warji (Katangar Warji), Giade (Giade), and Gamawa (Gamawa), as well as the Sayawa Zaar Chiefdom with headquarters at Mhrim Namchi.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at Government House, Bauchi, on Tuesday, Governor Mohammed cautioned against politicising the new law or attempting to undermine its implementation. He directed security agencies to take firm action against anyone found instigating division or disrupting public peace.
“Let me use this opportunity to issue a clear and firm warning,” the governor stated. “This administration will not tolerate any attempt to undermine, obstruct, or politicize the implementation of these laws. Anyone found spreading misinformation or inciting division will face the full consequences of the law.”
He further warned that government officials or traditional leaders who act contrary to the spirit of the reform or engage in conduct capable of undermining its objectives would face disciplinary action.
Mohammed also directed the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, in collaboration with the Secretary to the State Government, to immediately gazette and distribute copies of the new laws for prompt implementation.
Earlier, Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Abubakar Y. Suleiman, said the new legislation was a product of broad public engagement and consensus among stakeholders, including traditional rulers, civil society groups, and professional bodies.
According to him, “This law represents not just administrative expansion but a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility to build a system that serves every community fairly. It will strengthen traditional institutions and enhance service delivery in underserved areas.”
Suleiman added that the Assembly ensured fairness, due process, and respect for traditional norms in crafting the provisions for the appointment and deposition of traditional rulers under the new law.