Borno State Governor Hon Kashim Shettima has urged the new Emir of Askira Alhaji Mai Abdullahi Ibn Muhammadu Askirama to emulate the good qualities of his late father towards ensuring peaceful co existence between Muslims and Christians in his domain
Shettima disclose this today in Askira- Uba Local Government Area during the official presentation of Staff of Office the Mai of Askira who succeeded his late Father, Alhaji Mai Muhammadu Askirama.
Presenting the Staff of Office which took place at the Play Ground of the Government Secondary School Askira, Shettima there is no alternative to peaceful co existence in any part of the world while congratulating the new Emir for his well deserved appointment, the governor recalled that, his late father, Alhaji Mai Muhammadu Askirama II, had ruled Askira for the past 46 years after succeeding his predecessor Mai Maina in 1965 who also ruled between 1922 to 1965.
He said his administration is ever committed in upholding the tenants of the traditional institution, considering its immense contribution to the peaceful coexistence and promotion of cultural values in the society, hence, government will continue to support all traditional rulers across the 27 council areas of the state.
According to the governor,” if people like Lord Luggard will recognise the importance of traditional rulers in the quest for social and peaceful coexistence, then no government will afford to neglect them at a time like this when the nation is faced with serious security challenges.”
Governor Shettima therefore directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Baba Kaka Garbai to immediately embark on the renovation of all the Emirs and District Heads palaces, even as he said, government is doing everything possible to increase their salaries and allowances in order to improve their welfare.
Responding, Alhaji Mai Abdullahi expressed gratitude to the governor and other traditional rulers who graced the occasion, even as he promised to discharge his duties with the fear of Allah and as well as carrying everybody along devoid of ethnic,tribal or religious sentiment.
Among the dignitaries who graced the occasion include, the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Zanna Mustapha, the Shehu of Borno represented by the Shehu of Dikwa, Alhaji Shehu Masta II, emirs of Bauchi, Ningi, Fika, Mubi, Biu and Shani.