Can Any Chiefdom in Nigeria Truly Survive without Politics?

The concern that Zaar culture is beginning to embrace politics is understandable, especially given the sensitivity of identity, tradition, and leadership. 

However, it is important to ask a sincere and practical question: *Is there any chiefdom in Nigeria today that can truly survive without politics?* 

The reality is that no chiefdom operates in isolation from political structures. 

Across the country, traditional institutions—whether among the Yoruba traditional institutions or the Hausa-Fulani emirate system—exist and function within frameworks that are recognized and supported by government. 

The creation of chiefdoms, the approval of traditional rulers, and even the establishment of administrative structures are all tied, in one way or another, to political processes.

This does not mean that culture is being replaced by politics. Rather, it shows that politics and tradition often coexist, especially in a modern state like Nigeria.

The real issue, therefore, is not whether politics is involved—but how it is managed.

If politics is used as a tool to:

1. Promote unity

2. Bring development

3. Secure recognition and rights for the people

Then it becomes beneficial. 

But if it is allowed to:

1. Create division

2. Undermine tradition

3. Promote personal or sectional interests

Then it becomes a problem.

In the case of the Zaar people, what should matter most is that our culture, values, and identity remain strong and respected, regardless of any political connection.

The establishment of the Chiefdom and related developments should be seen as an opportunity to strengthen our heritage, not weaken it.

Therefore, instead of seeing politics as a threat, we should focus on ensuring that it is guided with wisdom, fairness, and a deep respect for our traditions.

Politics may be inevitable, but preserving our culture is a responsibility we must all uphold.

Yohanna Sunday Atiku

Criminologist and Security Expert,

Yir Gung Mhiri Lim.

28 March, 2026.

The Naming of Z.D.A. Secretariat After Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.

There are understandably different perspectives regarding the naming of the Z.D.A. Secretariat after the current Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (Kauran Bauchi).

Some individuals may view it from Perspective A: that this recognition is a way of appreciating and immortalizing the Governor’s decisive and courageous step in assenting to the Zaar Chiefdom Law—despite criticisms—which ultimately led to the historic installation of Brigadier General Kokko Yake (Rtd.) as the Gung Zaar I of the Zaar Chiefdom.

Others may see it from Perspective B: that such an honour could have been used to recognize one of the many heroes and sons of Zaarland who have contributed immensely to the struggle and development of the people.

Whichever perspective one holds, it is important to acknowledge that both viewpoints deserve understanding and respect.

However, beyond these differing opinions, the most significant achievement remains clear:

The Zaar Chiefdom has been established, and the Z.D.A. Secretariat has been successfully commissioned in Tafawa Balewa for the collective benefit, progress, and unity of our people.

At this point in our history, what matters most is not the name alone, but the purpose it serves. The Secretariat stands as a symbol of growth, recognition, and a new chapter for the Zaar people. 

Regardless of linguistic or cultural differences reflected in the name, it should unite rather than divide us.

Let us therefore embrace this development with maturity and a spirit of togetherness. Our strength lies in our unity, mutual respect, and shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Zaarland. 

By focusing on what binds us rather than what separates us, we can build a stronger, more inclusive future for generations to come.

Yohanna Sunday Atiku 

Criminologist and Security Expert,

Yir Gung Mhiri Lim. 

28 March, 2026.

Response to Sharing Sensitive Matters on Facebook

 On involving social media (Facebook):

This was neither accidental nor due to unpreparedness. What you are seeing today is something I have carefully thought about for over six years, dating back to 2019/2020.

Although I have spent recent years in Lagos, I am not unaware of the issue at hand. 

Without doubt, this is an internal matter that should be resolved internally. I strongly believe that we have capable elders and traditional rulers who are entrusted with the responsibility of handling such issues affecting Lim. 

This is not a choice for them—it is a duty. I am only a young person among many. 

Expecting me to raise such concerns before those responsible take action places a burden on me that I should not have to carry.

 Why bring this to social media?

In the past, journalists would physically investigate such matters and report them, thereby calling attention and holding responsible parties accountable. Social media now serves a similar purpose, especially for communities like Lim that may not receive such direct coverage.

Taking this matter to social media was not an attempt to resolve it, but to remind those responsible of their duties. Accountability remains theirs, not mine.

 *You may ask why I did not approach the elders or relevant parties directly.*

That is a fair question. However, the simple answer is: *it is not my duty to do so.

 In conclusion:

 My intention was not to settle this issue on social media, but to call attention to it and remind our elders that addressing such sensitive internal matters is their responsibility, not mine.

Thank you.

Elements and Meaning of the Newly Designed Lim Development Association (LDA) Lagos Branch Logo

Elements and Meaning of the Newly Designed Lim Development Association (LDA) Lagos Branch Logo

List of Elements in the Logo

1. Red Color

2. White Color

3. Black Color

4. Three Traditional Houses

5. Handshake

6. Lagos Skyline

7. Bridge

8. Star

9. Black Urban Structures Beside the Houses

10. Circular Shape of the Logo

11. Banner Bearing “Lagos Branch”

12. Motto: “Unity and Progress”.

Explanation of the Elements and Colours

1. Red: Represents the strength, courage, and resilience of the Zaar Sayawa people. It also symbolizes the sacrifices made by our ancestors in preserving our culture and identity.

2. White: Symbolizes peace, unity, and sincerity among members of the Lim community both at home and in the diaspora.

3. Black: Represents the heritage, identity, and pride of the Zaar Sayawa tribe, reflecting our deep cultural roots and shared history.

Together, the Red–White–Black colors proudly reflect the traditional identity of the Zaar Sayawa people and the commitment of Lim Development Association, Lagos Branch to promote Unity and Progress.

4. Three Traditional Houses: The three traditional houses represent the Lim community and its cultural heritage. These types of houses were common in Lim traditional society, symbolizing our ancestral roots, communal living, and cultural identity.

5. Handshake: The handshake represents unity, cooperation, and brotherhood among members of the association. It reflects the shared commitment of Lim sons and daughters to work together for the progress and development of their community.

6. Lagos Skyline:

The Lagos skyline represents the presence and contribution of Lim people living in Lagos. It reflects their engagement in economic, social, and professional activities in the city.

7. Bridge: The bridge symbolizes connection and linkage between Lim homeland and members residing in Lagos and other places. It also represents pathways for development, cooperation, and collective progress.

8. Star: The star represents hope, guidance, and a bright future for the Lim community. It symbolizes the aspiration and determination of Lim people to achieve progress and excellence.

9. Black Urban Structures Beside the Houses: The modern structures beside the traditional houses represent development, modernization, and opportunities available to Lim people in urban environments. They illustrate the balance between preserving our cultural heritage and embracing modern advancement.

10. Circular Shape of the Logo: The circular shape represents unity, inclusiveness, and continuity among members of the association. It signifies that the Lim community remains connected and united wherever its members may reside.

11. Banner Bearing “Lagos Branch”: The banner identifies the Lagos Branch of Lim Development Association and represents the organized presence and identity of Lim people residing in Lagos.

12. Motto: “Unity and Progress”: The motto reflects the collective commitment of members of Lim Development Association, Lagos Branch to remain united while working together for the social, cultural, and economic development of Lim community.