By Ayorinde Taiwo (SIWES student, Gate Way Polytechnic Saapade)
In a recent development, a fierce leadership dispute has unfolded between Sarkin Sasa, Haruna Maiyasin, and Sarkin Hausawa of Ibadanland, Alhaji Ali Zungeru.
The Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers and Chiefs from the 17 southern states has asserted that Zungeru lacks both the moral and constitutional authority to suspend Maiyasin from his position.
Maiyasin faced suspension following a Hausawa community meeting convened by Zungeru, during which he was accused of insubordination, disrespect towards the revered Olubadan of Ibadanland, and the improper conferment of chieftaincy titles without consulting the Sarki Hausawa of Ibadanland.
Speaking on behalf of the council, Sarkin Samari of Shuwa/Arab of Nigeria, Ahmed Muhammed, Uban Gari of Sasa, Isa Nalado, and Adam Haruna, the Secretary of Sarkin Sasa’s palace, gathered at Sarkin Sasa’s residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, to emphasize that Maiyasin’s appointment traces back to the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Oloyede Asanike, in 1983, and he was subsequently appointed as the Chairman of the Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers and Chiefs in 1994 by the late Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha.
Sarkin Samari, Muhammed, highlighted, The Federal Government, under the leadership of the late Gen. Sani Abacha, appointed Maiyasin as Chairman of the Council.
This decision was endorsed by all Hausa representatives from the affected states, and he received an official certificate of confirmation.
Therefore, it is not within the power of those who did not appoint him to remove him. We remain dedicated to the leadership of the Olubadan of Ibadanland and other relevant authorities.
Supporting this perspective, Uban Gari of Sasa, Nalado, stressed, Maiyasin is answerable exclusively to the esteemed leadership and institution of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, to whom he pledges loyalty and allegiance.
Sarkin Hausawa of Ibadanland, Zungeu, lacks the authority to dismiss Maiyasin, as he was not the one who installed him. We appeal to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Balogun, to mediate in this matter by summoning Zungeu and his associates to prevent potential disturbances within the Hausa community in Ibadan and the state as a whole.
It is essential to prevent any breakdown of law and order, as tensions among the Hausa community are escalating.
