Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has officially appointed his elder brother, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed, as the Emir of the newly established Duguri Emirate. The announcement was made on Friday, October 24, 2025, marking a new chapter in the state’s evolving traditional leadership structure.

The appointment was confirmed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Aminu Hammayo, who presented the official letter of appointment to the new Emir at the Duguri Palace, located in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Details of the Appointment

According to Hammayo, the decision to appoint Alhaji Adamu Mohammed followed careful consideration and consultation with key stakeholders and community leaders in the newly created emirate. The appointment, he noted, aligns with the governor’s vision to strengthen traditional institutions and foster unity and inclusivity among Bauchi’s diverse ethnic communities.

The newly installed Emir, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed, is expected to play a crucial role in promoting peace, cultural preservation, and grassroots development within the Duguri Emirate.

Governor Mohammed, who signed into law the creation of 13 new emirates and chiefdoms on October 21, 2025, stated that the reform was aimed at addressing long-standing issues of marginalization and ensuring equitable representation across Bauchi’s local governments.

“This move is about inclusivity and empowerment. We are building stronger traditional systems that reflect the will of the people,” Governor Mohammed said in a brief statement following the official presentation.

Background: A Controversial Move Amid Political Tensions

While the appointment has been welcomed by some residents of the new Duguri Emirate, critics have raised concerns about nepotism and conflict of interest, given the familial relationship between the governor and the newly appointed Emir.

Political observers have noted that this development could further deepen existing debates about political influence in traditional appointments across northern Nigeria.

Governor Bala Mohammed is no stranger to controversy. Earlier this year, he drew national attention after strongly criticizing the Federal Government’s Tax Reform Bill, describing it as “hasty and unfair.” His remarks led to a sharp rebuke from the Presidency, which accused him of “irresponsible politics” and attempting to incite public dissent.

Despite the backlash, Mohammed has maintained his stance, insisting that his comments were in defense of his state’s economic interests and that he “cannot be intimidated” by federal pressure.

Deputy Governor’s Scuffle Adds to the Storm

Adding to the growing list of controversies, reports surfaced in September 2025 alleging that Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Auwal Jatau, slapped the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, during a heated exchange at the Emir’s Palace in Bauchi.

Though the deputy governor’s office denied the incident, eyewitnesses claimed that tensions flared over disagreements relating to traditional council appointments — a sensitive subject that has now resurfaced with the creation of new emirates.

Analysts suggest that the appointment of the governor’s brother could further polarize political and traditional circles within the state, particularly among rival factions who see the move as a consolidation of family power under the guise of reform.

A New Chapter for Duguri Emirate

Despite the criticisms, supporters of the governor argue that the new Emirate represents a milestone for local governance and cultural recognition. Duguri, long known for its historical significance and traditional influence, now gains official status as one of Bauchi’s autonomous emirates.

The new Emir, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed, pledged to serve with “honor, fairness, and dedication,” emphasizing his commitment to peace and development within his community.

“I am deeply honored by this trust,” the Emir said. “Our focus will be unity, progress, and youth empowerment across Duguri and beyond.”

As Bauchi State navigates the balance between modern politics and traditional heritage, all eyes are now on the Duguri Emirate — and how Governor Bala Mohammed’s decision will reshape the landscape of traditional leadership in the region.