By Khalid Idris Doya
The National Youth Wing of the Boi Progressive Association (BPA) has called on Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, to urgently review what it described as the forceful inclusion of the Ayaa (Boi) people in the Zaar Chiefdom and facilitate the immediate removal of Boi District from the Zaar Chiefdom.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the national youth secretary of the association, Comrade Kalayenta Kevin, on behalf of the national youth chairman, Jonas Munaka, the group said justice, fairness and democratic principles demand that the wishes of the Ayaa people be respected.
The association noted that since discussions began on the creation of new chiefdoms, emirates and districts in Bauchi State, the Ayaa people had consistently and unequivocally rejected inclusion under the Zaar Chiefdom.
"The Boi Progressive Association National Youth Wing wishes to once again draw the attention of the Bauchi State Government, relevant authorities and the general public to the continued disregard for the clearly expressed wishes of the Ayaa (Boi) people regarding our traditional and cultural identity," the statement read.
According to the group, its position was communicated through memoranda, petitions, press statements, rejoinders, engagements with relevant committees and representations before constituted authorities.
"Our opposition has never been borne out of hostility toward our neighbours. Rather, it has been driven by our legitimate desire to preserve our distinct cultural identity, traditional institutions, historical heritage and the customs that define us as a people," the statement added.
The BPA Youth Wing alleged that despite repeated objections and appeals, the Ayaa people were forcefully placed under the Zaar Chiefdom through a process that ignored their collective will and aspirations.
The group further claimed that the outcome was influenced by a few politically motivated individuals who allegedly prioritised personal and political interests over the wishes of the majority of the people.
The association also expressed dissatisfaction over a recent appointment within the Boi traditional institution, arguing that the process did not comply with established Ayaa customs and traditions.
According to the statement, the appointment of a village head in Ayaa land has traditionally been the exclusive responsibility of the seven recognised kingmakers, who deliberate and make decisions in accordance with customary practices.
"For generations, the appointment of a Village Head within Ayaa land has been the exclusive responsibility of the duly recognised seven kingmakers. This traditional mechanism is not merely ceremonial; it is a sacred institution that guarantees legitimacy, continuity and respect for the values of our ancestors," the statement said.
The group maintained that the recent action bypassed the authority of the recognised kingmakers and undermined the integrity of the Ayaa traditional institution.
Describing the development as part of a broader attempt to weaken and subordinate the traditional structures of the Ayaa people, the BPA Youth Wing insisted that no society can thrive when its customs, traditions and indigenous governance systems are ignored.
While reaffirming its commitment to peace, lawful engagement and constructive dialogue, the association said it would continue to resist actions that undermine its identity and traditional values.
The group therefore called on the Bauchi State Government and relevant authorities to review the circumstances surrounding the appointment and ensure that due process is followed in line with Ayaa customary law and tradition.
It also urged the government to engage legitimate representatives of the Ayaa people in sincere dialogue aimed at addressing concerns arising from their inclusion in the Zaar Chiefdom.
"Sustainable peace can only be achieved when justice, consultation and mutual respect guide decision-making," the statement said.
The association reiterated that its position remains unchanged, insisting that the Ayaa people reject inclusion under the Zaar Chiefdom and demand respect for their cultural identity, traditional institutions and right to determine their future.
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