Bauchí Committee Apologises to Governor, Emir Over Cancelation of 2025 Sallah Durbar Festival

From Paul Orude Bauchi

The Bauchi State Emirate Council Durbar Committee has apologised to Governor Bala Mohammed and the Emir, His Royal Highness Dr Rilwanu  Suleiman Adamu,  following the backlash that greeted the sudden cancellation of this year’s Sallah Durbar festival.

The Bauchi State Government had announced the suspension following a communication of the decision from the Bauchi Emirate.  

In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Bala Mohammed on Media and Publicity, Comrade Mukthar Gidado, the government clarified that the decision to suspend the festival was made solely by the Emirate .  

The statement explained that out of respect for the council and traditional institutions, Governor Bala Mohammed reluctantly approved the request.

However, the state government  expressed regret over the lack of prior consultation in the decision-making process.  

According to the statement, the government reassured residents of its commitment to preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage. 

It also acknowledged the inconvenience caused to residents and visitors who had made plans to attend the festival.  

The government pledged to implement measures that ensure better planning and coordination to prevent such changes especially in areas of cultural events.

A press statement signed by Alhaji Shehu Mudu Muhammad, Secretary of the Emirate Council, expressed deep regret over the misinformation that trailed the announcement by the state government .

Muhammad explained that the Durbah Committee of the Emirate had indeed sought permission from the governor to suspend the 2025 Sallah Durbah and the governor obliged in good faith .

“The Emirate Council deeply regrets the confusion and dissatisfaction this situation has caused. We have already extended our unreserved apology to His Excellency Governor Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir (Kauran Bauchí) and the Bauchí Emirate .

“The relationship between the two has always been that of mutual respect and cooperation and it remains unshaken by the action of detractors,” the statement added.

“We urge all concerns parties to refrain from spreading mischievous and unfounded  information aimed at causing disinfection between,” the state government and the Emirate.

It expressed the commitment of the Emirate to continue to foster unity and understanding within the community and further apologised for the confusion