Gov Bala approves postponement of 2025 sallah durbar festival in Bauchi

By: Ajiya Ayuba, Bauchi 

The Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir on Friday approved the postponement of the 2025 Sallah Durbar in the state. 

Bala’s special adviser on media and publicity, Mukhtar Gidado made this known in a statement signed and issued to newsmen in Bauchi. 

The statement reads in part: “Government acknowledges the decision of the Bauchi Emirate Council’s Committee on Sallah Durbar to postpone this year’s much-anticipated Durbar Festival”

“It is important to clarify that this decision was an internal resolution made by the Emirate Council without prior involvement of the state government”

He said that the Sallah Durbar festival has stood as a pillar of Bauchi’s rich cultural heritage, a tradition that brings together the good people of Bauchi, visitors, and tourists from across Nigeria and beyond. 

“It is a symbol of unity, history, and identity, fostering communal pride while significantly contributing to the social and economic vibrancy of the state”

“In recognition of its significance, the Bauchi State Government had made extensive security and logistical preparations to ensure a seamless and successful celebration”

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“Nonetheless, out of profound respect for the traditional institution and its leadership, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has reluctantly approved the request from the Emirate Council. 

The government regrets the lack of prior engagement on such a major decision, it remains committed to working harmoniously with the emirate in upholding and preserving Bauchi’s cherished customs”.

“The Bauchi State Government deeply regrets any inconvenience this last-minute postponement may have caused to the peace-loving residents of Bauchi and to the esteemed guests who had planned to witness this grand event”

“Going forward, the state will take necessary steps to ensure that such abrupt changes do not occur in the future, particularly regarding matters of cultural significance that impact the people and the image of the state” it stated.