6th October, 2021
Mohammed Barau Muazu has eventually been appointed as the 7th Emir of Kontagora despite objections to his emergence back in September.
His appointment was announced by the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Emmanuel Umar, during a press conference at the Government House in Minna on Wednesday.
Muazu was elected the 7th Emir (Sarkin Sudan) of Kontagora on Sunday, September 19, in Kotangora.
However, other contenders for the royal stool kicked against his emergence.
The protest made the state government postpone the announcement and the redeployment of then commissioner of Chieftaincy Affairs, Abdulmalik Daji.
The former commissioner was accused of bias in a petition after he announced Mohammed Barau Muazu scored the highest vote.
Upon Mohammed’s confirmation as emir, he becomes the successor of late 84-year-old Sa’idu Namaska. in September.
Mr. Umar explained that the new emir emerged in line with the Customary Laws and Practice of the Kontagora Emirate.
He said in response to the petition, the governor, acting on section 3(2) and 7 of the Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) Law of Niger State 1989 (as revised), held meetings with the kingmakers and also consulted the State Council of Chiefs.
Umar said the kingmakers, during their interaction with the governor, affirmed that the selection followed the Customary Law of Kontagora Emirate and their decision was based on their own conviction without any undue influence.
He noted that the governor, thereafter acted under section 3 subsection (1) of the Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) Law Chapter 19, Law of Niger State 1989 (as revised) and all other powers conferred on him and appointed Mohammed Barau Muazu Kontagora as the 7th Emir of Kontagora