Nigeria Decides: Stay clear from politics, Niger Governor Bello tells traditional rulers

… Urges Them To Remain Role Models

From John Adams, Minna

The Niger state Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello urged Traditional rulers in the country to remain role models and custodian of cultural heritage Nigerians rather than involving themselves in politics, saying that the people are looking up to them to play the role of non partisan before, during and after the forthcoming general elections.

The governor spoke in Kontagora, the headquarters of Kontagora local government area of the state at the official coronation and presentation of staff of office to the 7th Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora Alhaji Muhammadu Barau Muazu 11 on Saturday.

Governor Bello tasked the traditional leaders to ensure that people in their domain conduct themselves peacefully towards achieving violent free general elections in the country.

According to him Niger state government will continue to engage traditional institution in governance process, especially at the grass root level to enhance rapid development of the state.

The governor therefore congratulated the people of Kontagora Emirate for having an Emir that he said emerged through a transparent process, adding that this has further broaden the legitimacy and integrity of traditional institutions in Niger state.

Earlier, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar who graced the occasion, advised the new Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora to be just and fair to his subjects in addition to operating an open door policy to give his subjects a sense of belonging.

In his speech after the presentation of the staff of office, the seventh Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora Alhaji Muhammadu Barau Muazu 11 appreciated Governor Abubakar Sani Bello for his support towards the success of the event and promised to stand by his subject to succeed.

The oath of office and allegiance was administered on the Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora by the Chief Judge of Niger state Justice Halima Ibrahim Abdulmalik.

All the first class Emirs in the state led by the Chairman Council of Chiefs, the Etsu Nupe Dr Yahaya Abubakar were in attendance while over fifty Emirs from across the country attended the coronation and presentation of staff of office to the new Emir of Kontagora.