New State Creation: Why Savannah?

By Mohammed Albarno

In issues affecting the country, particularly the creation of a new state, it is a great idea, one that everyone has strong feelings about, as it can bring development to their areas. Of course, all the zones should ideally gain a state, which would help balance and address their challenges. But in the Northeast zone, this issue has created some confusion.

In this area, we have three different proposed states: Savannah State, Katagum State, and Amana State. All of them deserve to gain independence from where they are now. But Savannah deserves it the most. The following discussion can clarify any doubt.

Katagum: Yes, they deserve a state because of their remarkable journey. If you look at Azare, you will see that they have developed in every corner. The city is big, well-developed, and in every aspect, they deserve recognition. Despite the difficulty of producing a governor, that does not mean they have never produced one. Isa Yuguda is one of the former Bauchi governors who came from the Azare Katagum area.

Amana State: Let’s consider Mubi, Madagali, Gombi, and Michika. All of them are part of Amana and are fighting for statehood. Their zone has produced governors, like Bindo of Mubi and Fintiri of Gulak. Unlike Savannah, where no one has even contested the governorship.

Savannah State: Why do I support Savannah? The Savannah area totally deserves to be independent from Borno. We have professors, experts, legends, and writers, but none of them have ever reached the governor’s seat. Why? Because of tribalism, corruption, and selfishness. Why does tenure not change? Always, some tribes dominate, not even the Shuwa. It feels like we are living under a kind of injustice.

I agree with those who think Katagum deserves a state. Of course, Katagum and Mubi deserve it, but Savannah deserves it even more.

We stand with Savannah, and we will pray for Savannah. May Almighty God watch over Savannah.

Ameen.