User talk:Luka jumma Gizaki

ETHNIC MINORITY SUTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND THE QUEST FOR UNITY AMONG ZAAR PEOPLE OF BAUCHI STATE
His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad CON, (Kauran Bauchi, Jagaban Katagum), His Royal Highness Dr Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, the Emir of Bauchi, the Senator, representing Bauchi South, Senator Shehu Umar Buba, Members representing Bogoro, Dass, Tafawa Balewa and Bauchi Federal Constituencies, Hon. Jafaru Leko and Hon. Aliyu Aminu Garu respectively. The Members representing Bogoro and Zungur/Galambi in the Bauchi State House of Assembly Hon. Musa W. Nakwada and Hon. Sa’adu Yusuf Ahmad. Our special Guests, Barr. Kefas M. Magaji, Former Chairman Nigeria Law Reform Commission, Barr. Saratu Jibrin, Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Land and Survey, Bauchi State and Alhaji Lawal Muhammed, Durumin Bauchi/Maigundumar Birshi. Our father of the day Prof. Simon M. Yalams, Hon. Commissioner of Agriculture, Bauchi State, Mother of the Day, Dr. Mrs. Lydia H. Tsammani Jaruman Bogoro and Hon Commissioner of Higher Education Bauchi State. The chief hosts Hon. Zainab Baban Takko, Care taker Chairperson Bauchi Local Government Area, Engr. Isuwa Galla, the Zaar Development Association (ZDA) President and Mr. Haruna Mbula, the Hamlet Head of Gudum Sayawa. Invited guests Hon. Markus Bitrus and Hon. Samaila Wakili Caretaker Chairmen, Bogoro and Tafawa Balewa Local Government Areas. The Chairman of the occasion, Surveyor, Alhamdu Daniel Sabo, office of the Surveyor General of the Federation, Abuja and the Chairman ZDA Bauchi Branch, Comrade Ishaya T. Audu. The Press, distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen. Introduction Permit me to first of all thank the organizers of this august event for their untiring effort in putting together an event like this, especially at the time our unity suffers set back. I must also appreciate them for calling on me from a minority ethnic group in Bauchi State to address this unique gathering on the topic “Ethnic minority, sustainable development and the quest for unity among Zaar people of Bauchi State” Indeed the topic is timely and I wish to assure you that I shall do justice to it. Martin Luther King once said “Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world better.” We pray for God’s blessings, protection and guidance as we survive in this era of divisiveness tearing us apart, an enemy with evil kids gloves confronting us as people. The Zaar community, nestled in the heart of Bauchi State, embodies a rich cultural tapestry that contributes to the diverse mosaic of our nation. Recognizing the need for communal harmony and progress, the Zaar Development Association Bauchi Branch has taken a commendable step by sponsoring the Zaar Annual Cultural Day 2023. This event serves as a pivotal platform for fostering unity among the Zaar people, transcending the boundaries of ethnic diversity. The cultural day not only celebrates the vibrant heritage of the Zaar community but also underscores the significance of sustainable development initiatives within ethnic minorities. In a world where cultural identities often face challenges, the Zaar Annual Cultural Day becomes a beacon, illuminating the path toward a more cohesive and integrated society. It acts as a testament to the resilience of the Zaar people and their commitment to preserving their unique cultural identity while embracing progress. Furthermore, sustainable development lies at the core of the Zaar Annual Cultural Day objectives. By promoting environmentally conscious practices, economic empowerment, and social inclusivity, the event aims to catalyze positive change within the Zaar community, ensuring a future that is not only culturally rich but also economically and ecologically sustainable. Minority is any group of persons which constitutes less than half of the population in the entire territory of a state whose members share common characteristics of culture, religion or language. Osaghae, (1995) defines ethnicity as the employment or mobilization of ethnic identity and differences to gain advantage in situation, competition, conflict or cooperation. From this definition, it could infer that ethnicity is neither a natural nor an accidental phenomenon but a creation of man. It could also be regarded as an outcome conscious effort by individuals who are involved in the task of ethnic manipulation for a known reason. However, it should be noted that ethnicity manifests itself in so many terms and impacts on the political, economic and social life of the people. We need development and its sustainability as a people. Sustainable development continuously seeks to achieve social an economic progress. We must all develop ways to meet these needs so that posterity can inherit a healthy and developed land. But the unfortunate part of it is that all the infrastructure provided to our land from 1999 to date have been destroyed by our youths. To buttress this point, the solar light panels that were installed in our communities, have all been destroyed or stolen, except for the few ones in secured places like church compounds and motor park. Likewise, our transformers in most villages only standing poles are left, the transformers have been vandalized and cable stolen. We can sustain development only if we value development especially the ones attracted by politicians, and nature’s gifts like economic trees that we cut without replacing through planting new ones. I urge you to at least plant one economic tree especially Orphan trees such as Dorowa Parkia biglobosa, Dinya Vitex donian, Kadanya Vitellari paradoxa, Kuka Adasonia, digitalis etc. in your life so that you can be remembered for that kind gesture to humanity. I expect that watching over the above-mentioned facilities should be one of the core duties of Zaar Youth Development Association (ZAYODA). But it is appalling that the Association today is being used by selfish people for their personal interest. Never like in those days where people engaged on community development projects for their collective progress. But today nobody makes such sacrifices for free except if monetized. That monetary issue is one factor that has made our people to be lazy and easily used as tools by our politicians. Politics comes with development but is quite disheartening that in our land, it has done us more harm than good. Historically, we were known to be a united people until politics came and divided us. Politicians have realized that our major weakness is our quest for chiefdom and they all use it for their political gain. May I advise us all to merge chiefdom issue and the redeeming image as a united people. Let us emulate the Igbos. Igbo people are prominent in Nigeria today because they have successful businesses across the length and breadth of Nigeria. They are making waves in diverse sectors of Nigeria’s economy. The Igbo being in charge of either infrastructure or pharmaceutical industries. The Igbos are in charge of Nigeria’s economy. Historical context of Zaar people The Sayawa are said to have come far from the east to the present Chad Republic between the 9th and 13th centuries. It is believed that they migrated together with the Jarawa, Warjawa in Ningi Local Government Area, Famawa, Angasawa, Surawa, Mwagavul and Mupun in Plateau State, Kutumbawa in Kano State, Babur/Burra, Margi and Kilba in Borno and Adamawa States. Linguistically, they share some similarities with the Warjawa, Babur/Bura, Kilba,Margi and Terawa. The Sayawa language is one of the Chadian group of languages. It is also believed that there was a strong relationship between Sayawa and Gobir (Hausa) because of the similarity of tribal marks. The Zaar people have a fascinating history, marked by cultural richness and significant contributions to the wider society. From their traditional practices to artistic expressions, the Zaar have played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural mosaic of their region. However, this journey has not been without challenges, as ethnic minorities often face obstacles in the pursuit of sustainable development. Discrimination, marginalization, and economic disparities have hindered the Zaar people's progress, making it imperative to address these issues for a brighter future. Unity among Zaar people Unity is about shielding our swords and embracing one another. Zaar land and its inhabitants thereof are harmoniously wired by God. The joy of living together can’t be overemphasized. I can’t move further without mentioning the Zaar slogan “Sorgha Nanbong yi tutlhbah” meaning single broom stick cannot sweep the floor. I remember growing up as a child in Zaar land we used to sing it as a chorus. Moving together, playing together was a thing of joy in Zaar land. Social harmony in Zaar land coincides with National unity which is important for maintaining social behaviours, communal peace and preventing conflicts between different groups, factions regardless of religious or political affiliation. Unity stands as a bedrock for sustainable development among the Zaar people. Historical instances showcase the strength derived from unity, enabling the community to overcome adversities. By fostering a sense of togetherness, the Zaar people can navigate modern challenges more effectively. Drawing inspiration from our ancestors, the call for unity resonates as a powerful force capable of propelling the Zaar people towards prosperity. Causes of disunity in Zaar land Disunity is a total disagreement and conflict within a group or society. It is the greatest hindrance to peaceful coexistence in a society. The causes of disunity are not farfetched, they include: unhealthy crave for power or self – promotion. Whenever there is an unhealthy pursuit of influence in a family, society or group it results in resistance. Self – promotion gives birth to unfair practices, as we find in Numbers 12:1-15. Moses’s sister Miriam and Aaron rebelled against him desiring to rule by force and in Numbers 16: 1-35 Korah led an insurrection against Moses desiring to be part of leadership. In both cases, God was not pleased with the rebels because their actions brought about disunity and they were punished for it. This is exactly what is going on in Zaar land. Crave for power and position that leads to negative influence that causes height of disunity and dastardly vices in our land. What is today bedeviling us in Zaar land is selfishness. Everybody is after only what benefits him and his interest without minding whether it affects his fellow negatively. How do you now expect us to progress collectively as one people? A Zaar man of today has a tendency for hatred towards his fellow Zaar Man, where he doesn’t want his brother to excel above him or attain the level he is. To him he sees that as a taboo, therefore, he alone deserves good things and wants to always be worshiped. With such an attitude you expect a breed of development? It won’t work! Development comes when there is collaboration and unity of purpose. Why must there be disunity among people claiming common descent? My beloved listeners, if we must remain united as a people, we must eschew unhealthy craving for power or influence which breeds resistance or opposition and injustice. On the other hand, we must sincerely love one another regardless of our status, religious or political affiliation. As the saying goes “united we stand but divided we fail” How can we say, I am for Paul and others for Timothy as it’s in the Bible. We have one root and we have to function as one. Many of us today are ardent supporters or loyalists of certain individuals or groups even if what the individuals or groups values promote only conflicts amongst us as a people. The panacea for disunity in Zaar land There are possible solutions to disunity in our land. Zaar land needs a paradigm shift that will urgently tackle the alarming disunity. This disunity is a ticking time bomb to our common destiny and collective future. If our leaders can eschew selfishness and unite to introduce policies like wealth creation among ourselves, it will set us to the land of our dream. Also, we must ensure that there is zero tolerance for violence and hatred. It is sad to note that some of our elite are responsible for our disunity today. It is therefore right to say that what Zaar Land needs is honest leaders that would be a rallying point for all of us and that will unite us. This, I believe, will enhance our development as a people. In every problem there’s a solution. Before we become object of scorn and universal derision, we have to wake up from our deep slumber and remove the veil of shame that is about covering our father land Tafawa Balewa and Bogoro respectively. This is a clarion call to all the stakeholders in our land to rise and pick the bull by the horns in restoring peace and harmony in our land. Unity is crucial because it provides strength, power, and courage. When people come together, they can achieve more than they could individually. We have to let go of our differences be it political, religious and or otherwise. Unity is often seen in the workplace, where team members work together to complete a task. It is also seen in local communities where people come together to help each other, “together we stand and divided we fall” i.e., small and united minority are much stronger than a large crowd of disunited majority. It is an obvious truism that education is key to development. Therefore, we have to maximize the skills and knowledge we have acquired in all fields/disciplines of endeavor in order to build and restore the lost glory of our God’s given land. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I must say that, having a strong sense of community is beneficial for anyone and everyone. It brings people together, builds healthy relationships, and fosters a sense of belonging. We should always address issues and not personality. One mistake we should never make in life is to allow ourselves to be recruited by someone, to hate another person who have not offended us in anyway. We must avoid drawing hasty conclusions because of what others are saying about someone else. Someone said, “A friend of my enemy is my enemy”. One of the things that hinder us from living a fulfilling and inclusive life is bringing past biases and sentiments into present relationships. A friend of your enemy is not necessarily your enemy, it all depends on intentions and contributions. God can use your enemy’s friend to bless you. Therefore, never draw up conclusions based on what others tell you about someone. Do not inherit other people’s enemy: It is ignorance and foolishness when you automatically make your friend’s enemies your own. Never use your parental influence to make your children hate others. Don’t gang up with others to hate someone: Don’t join the majority to hate someone – you may realize that the person has not committed any offence. Do not accept to be used as a weapon in other people’s battles: When people fight dirty, refuse to take sides. Observe carefully before you draw conclusion. Also, don’t hate people just because they don’t behave as you: That someone is not from your clan doesn’t make them your enemy. The greatest proof of your education is in how you respond to people whose opinions are different from yours. People who think their opinions are superior to others are most prone to over estimating their knowledge and ignoring chances to learn more. The people who don’t think like you are your greatest source of enlightenment. Is normally people that are not like you that help you grow the most. Don’t judge people until you know the whole story: Someone once said, “Beware of the half-truth. You may have gotten hold of the wrong half”. Don’t judge other people’s choices without understanding their reasons. If people say something bad about you or judge you as if they know you, don’t easily get affected. Remember that, dogs bark if they don’t know the person. People who are intimidated by you talk about you with hopes that others won’t find you so appealing. Stay away from people who talk bad about others daily, this kind of people carry a negative spirit, and a negative spirit is contagious. The real problem is not that they are unhappy with others, but they are unhappy with themselves. Stop the destructive habit of talking about people behind their back. Talking badly about someone else while they aren’t there to defend themselves says more about you than the person you’re talking about. When you have issues with people, try and discuss the issue with them. Stop discussing them with others. Dear Zaarites, unity is important because it offers a safe haven where everyone feels welcome. It’s where you feel appreciated. It’s where you are a part of something bigger than yourself. It’s where you can find and offer support. We have to disregard violence and hatred in order to achieve our common goals. A word is enough for the wise, let us come together to build our father’s land. Conclusion In conclusion, the Zaar people's journey is intricately woven with historical richness, challenges, and a potential for sustainable development. This paper encourages the Zaar people to embrace unity as a catalyst for sustainable progress, collaborate with leaders, and implement practical initiatives. In doing so, the Zaar people can build a future that reflects their cultural identity and contributes to the well-being of their community. One of the causes of our disunity is the tussle over the throne of kingship or Zaar Chiefdom. To me that should not be a serious problem because one cannot avoid that even in the same family of deceased King or Ruler such things usually occur. All the members of the King’s family will struggle to inherit the throne but at the end only one of them will emerge victorious and that does not mean that they will no longer be one family. Fellow Zaarites, I am passionate about the actualization of the chiefdom we are craving for simply because politicians are never willing to come to our aid. Since they know that the chiefdom issue is our earnest desire. They always promise us chiefdom during their campaigns. In fact, considering our high voting strength, everybody contesting the seat of governor uses the promise as a strategy to canvas for our votes. I can vividly quote His Excellency Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed “We will actualize Sayawa Chiefdom for peaceful coexistence”. He stated that while addressing Christian Association of Nigeria, Bauchi Branch when they paid him a courtesy visit on the 31st March, 2023. Nobody can gainsay the assertion that, we the Sayawa (Zaar) are marginalized. Therefore, marginalized let us look at what will sustain us rather than always shouting on people that marginalize us. It is easier for a Camel to go through the eye of a needle than a Sayawa (Zaar) to become a Senator, Minister, Ambassador or Governor of Bauchi State, though God plans is different from the way we view things. What is the way forward for us? Rather than casting blames on our brothers or those that marginalize us, we must think inward and key into business and be persistent in any business we are into. I want to assure you that if we do this, we shall control the Bauchi State economies and our enemies will borrow money from us. Appeal Finally, I want to appeal to His Excellency, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad CON (Kauran Bauchi, Jagaban Katagum), to speed up the process of actualizing the Sayawa Chiefdom which is one of the causes of disunity in Zaar land. I may wish to still acknowledge the importance of his excellency Senator Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad CON (Kauran Bauchi, Jagaban Katagum), to the Zaar people. He is the only Governor who has in history awarded a road construction in Zaar land from the Bauchi State treasury worth billions of Naira. Similarly, the only Governor in history to have appointed Two Sayawa as senior Commissioners in Bauchi State. Thank you. Long Live Bauchi State Long Live Zaarites Long Live ZDA Long Live ZAYODA Luka jumma Gizaki (talk) 07:26, 19 December 2023 (UTC)