Emir of Katagum Turbans 97 Village Heads, Charges Them to Uphold Justice and Strengthen Community Security

By Musa Shehu:

The Emir of Katagum, Alhaji Dr. Umar Farooq II, has turbaned 97 newly appointed Village Heads across the Katagum Emirate, urging them to administer justice fairly, serve their communities with integrity, and strictly adhere to government policies.

The turbaning ceremony, held on Sunday at the Emir’s Palace, drew a large crowd of dignitaries, traditional rulers, government officials, family members, and well-wishers from within and outside the emirate.

Addressing the newly installed Village Heads, the Emir called on them to remain loyal to their District Heads, Local Government authorities, and the Bauchi State Government.

He also urged them to pray for the continued success of Governor Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, whom he commended for supporting the appointments.

The monarch stressed the importance of maintaining peace and security at the grassroots, directing the Village Heads to promptly report any suspicious activities or emerging security threats to the appropriate traditional and government authorities.

He further warned against illegal tree felling, unauthorized exploitation and sale of forest resources, encroachment on grazing reserves, and farming along roadsides.

According to the Emir, anyone found violating these directives would face sanctions in accordance with the law.

Speaking on behalf of the Bauchi State Government, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Alhaji Usman Shehu Usman, congratulated the newly turbaned Village Heads and urged them to support the administration of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed by promoting peace, security, and grassroots development.

The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions, noting that official vehicles and residences had already been provided for emirs and district heads across the state.

He also announced that the state government plans to construct houses and provide motorcycles for the newly appointed Village Heads to improve their mobility and enhance their effectiveness in carrying out their responsibilities.

In addition, he disclosed that the Bauchi State Government has reviewed the salary structure for traditional title holders as part of efforts to improve their welfare and enable them to serve their communities more efficiently.

The ceremony marked another milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen traditional leadership and deepen collaboration between traditional institutions and government in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development across Bauchi State.