…Celebrates cultural unity
By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman
The Hausa Kingdom in Imo State, a historic institution that has played a central role in the lives of the Hausa people in the southeastern region of Nigeria, is celebrating its 153rd anniversary.
Established over a century and a half ago by the people of Tsakuwa, Dal ward in Garko Local Government Area, the kingdom is currently headed by its fourth Emir, Alh. Auwal Baba Sa’idu Sulaiman, who has served for eight years.
The Hausa Kingdom serves as the leader of the Hausa communities in Imo State, including both Muslims and non-Muslims who migrated from the northern states.
Under the Emirate’s guidance, the kingdom now boasts a robust structure with ten members on its Emirate Council and 27 district heads spread across the 27 local government areas of the state.
In a statement by Nura Bala Ajingi, he revealed that, during an exclusive interview at his palace in Owerri, Alh. Auwal Baba Sa’idu Sulaiman shared insights into the kingdom’s rich history.
He explained that the first Emir of the kingdom was Malam Yahaya, followed by Malam Sa’idu, the second Emir, and then Malam Sulaiman, the third Emir.
He emphasized that the Hausa people, along with other northern settlers in Oma Hausa and parts of Imo State, have maintained peaceful coexistence with the indigenous population.
The Emir, who also serves as the Secretary of the Council of Chiefs of the South-East and South-South regions, expressed gratitude for the strong support and cooperation the Hausa Kingdom has received from the Imo State government, led by Governor Hope Uzodinma, as well as from local security agencies.
He noted that this partnership has enabled the kingdom’s residents to thrive in business and agriculture in the region.
“Through the Hausa Kingdom of Imo State, we have provided opportunities for our people to engage in business freely and pursue better livelihoods,” said the Emir. “This is a significant milestone for us, and we are committed to fostering a harmonious relationship with our neighbors, particularly the Igbo community.”
In a historic moment, Alh. Auwal Baba Sa’idu Sulaiman welcomed the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to his palace.
The visit marked the first time the NUJ leadership had come to the kingdom, and the Emir assured them of his commitment to building strong ties with the media for mutual development.
The Emir also extended his gratitude to Comrade Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, the Kano State Chairman of the NUJ, and the entourage for their visit.
In addition to business and cultural ties, the Hausa Kingdom of Imo State celebrates its traditions during major religious festivals, including the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (Sallah) celebrations.
The kingdom is known for its cultural festivals, where followers of other religions and tribes, including the Igbo, can freely conduct their affairs, with intermarriage being a key part of the social fabric.
Alh. Sulaiman Ibrahim Sulaiman, the Garkuwa of the Hausa Kingdom and Adviser to the Governor on Northern Affairs, highlighted the role of the Emir’s ancestors in the kingdom’s establishment, noting their determination and resilience in securing the kingdom’s place in Owerri.
The chairman of the Kano State branch of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, emphasized that the visit was an important gesture aimed at seeking the blessings of the Emir and establishing lasting relationships for the continued development of the kingdom.
As the Hausa Kingdom of Imo State celebrates its 153rd anniversary, it stands as a testament to the resilience and unity of the northern settlers in the southeastern region, continuing to foster peace, cultural exchange, and socio-economic development.