By Abubakar Rabilu Gombe
The Majikiran Gona, Arc. Mohammed Abubakar Akko, has urged the Gombe State Government to introduce an improved welfare package for members of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, saying stronger support for traditional institutions would enhance peace, security and grassroots development.
Akko made the call while commending the state government for the ongoing renovation and upgrading of some emirates’ and district heads’ palaces through the Joint Project Development Agency (JDPA), describing the initiative as a commendable effort aimed at preserving the state’s cultural heritage and traditional institutions.
He, however, stressed that beyond the rehabilitation of palaces, there was a need to strengthen traditional institutions through improved funding, logistics and operational support to enable royal fathers discharge their responsibilities more effectively.
According to him, Emirs, Chiefs and District Heads remain critical stakeholders in promoting peaceful coexistence, resolving communal disputes, addressing farmers-herders conflicts and complementing government efforts to maintain law and order across communities.
“Our traditional rulers occupy a unique position in society as custodians of culture and symbols of unity. They play vital roles in mediation, community mobilisation and conflict prevention, and their contributions to the stability and development of the state cannot be overemphasised,” he said.
Akko expressed concern over reports that an official vehicle belonging to one of the state’s emirs recently broke down along the Bauchi–Gombe highway, saying the incident reflected the logistical challenges facing traditional institutions.
He noted that such developments underscored the need for government to review the welfare arrangements and support mechanisms available to traditional rulers, particularly in view of the increasing responsibilities they shoulder in community leadership and conflict management.
The Majikiran Gona further observed that with the establishment of Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) and growing discussions on state policing, traditional rulers should be accorded a greater role in policymaking, grassroots administration and community-based security initiatives.
He appealed to authorities responsible for chieftaincy affairs to recommend to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya the introduction of a comprehensive welfare package for members of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, similar to those obtainable in neighbouring Bauchi and Taraba states.
Akko maintained that investing in traditional institutions was not merely a matter of protocol, but a strategic step towards consolidating peace, strengthening the state’s security architecture and promoting sustainable development.
“Supporting traditional institutions is ultimately an investment in peace, stability and inclusive development,” he added.
