Breaking: Sani-Bello appoints new Emir of Kontagora

Niger State governor Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has appointed a new Emir of Kotangora.

He is Mohammed Baba Barau. The appointment came after a month the erstwhile Emir, Alhaji Saidu Umaru Namaska died on the throne at the age of 84 and having spent 47 years.

In a statement issued in Minna on What by the Commissioner for Local Government, Community Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Emmanuel Nura said the selection was done by the Kingmakers of the Kotangora Emirate Council and they arrived at Mohammed Baba Barau.

“Sunday 19th of September, 2021 in Kontagora, the selection was done by the Kingmakers of the Kontagora Emirate in line with the Customary Laws and Practice of the Kontagora Emirate.

“However, some aggrieved contestants to the stool petitioned the Governor of Niger State alleging some irregularities in the selection process.

“In response to the petition, the Governor acting on section 3(2) and 7 of the Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) Law of Niger State 1989 (as revised) held meetings with the Kingmakers and also consulted the State Council of Chiefs.

The Commissioner said the State governor listened to all parties, but was
that the selection followed the Customary Law of Kontagora Emirate and their decision was based on their own conviction without any undue influence.

“Therefore, in line with the powers vested in the Governor under section 3 subsection (1) of the Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) Law Chapter 19, Law of Niger State 1989 (as revised) and all other powers enabling him in that behalf has accepted the selection of and appointed Mohammed Barau Kontagora as the 7th Emir (Sarkin Sudan) of Kontagora Emirate.”