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The Tangale Community Overseas, TCO, has reiterated its support for Musa Idris Maiyamba as the legitimate Mai Tangale, following the Court of Appeal ruling in Maiduguri that favored Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s contentious stance on the chieftaincy.

A statement from the group’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Eli Ibrahim Kerek, stated, “The Tangale people remain united, law-abiding, and committed to defending their cultural heritage, dignity, and constitutional rights. Our culture, traditions, and inherent right to determine our own leadership cannot and will not be disregarded.”

The TCO leadership characterized the Court of Appeal ruling as an effort to undermine Tangale customs and silence the collective voice of the community, asserting that Dr. Maiyamba, a respected medical professional, was properly chosen by the Tangale kingmakers in 2021 according to established customs and is widely accepted among Tangale individuals both in Nigeria and abroad.

The statement clarified, “The disagreement arises from Governor Yahaya’s refusal to appoint Dr. Maiyamba, instead favoring an outsider, which TCO contends violates Tangale succession law and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, including sections regarding freedom of religion, equality, and the right to self-determination in traditional leadership matters.”

TCO described this as a recurring pattern of bias and interference by the governor against Tangale leaders and institutions, referencing previous instances such as the denial of Justice Beatrice Iliya from becoming Chief Justice of Gombe State due to her faith and ethnic background.

The statement detailed a history of resilience among the Tangale people, noting that the community thrived without a traditional ruler between 1680 and 1700, and again from 1996 to 2001, emphasizing that the current four-year vacancy of the Mai Tangale stool is “not unprecedented,” and that the Tangale identity is founded on culture, unity, and shared heritage rather than governmental recognition.

Kerek mentioned that TCO also addressed the alleged harassment of Tangale Christians during the Mai Tangale controversy, including wrongful arrests and stigmatization by local authorities, stating that these events, according to TCO, reflect deep-rooted discrimination; however, the community has responded with restraint, discipline, and ongoing commitment to lawful processes.

To strengthen unity, he explained that TCO recently held a historic election for the Tangale Community Development Association (TCDA), with Comrade Danladi Bako elected as National President, asserting that the election represents the will of the Tangale people both nationally and internationally.

TCO also announced that the annual Pissi Tangale festival will not be held this year, indicating the community’s firm position on the leadership dispute.

TCO urged all Tangale sons and daughters to remain steadfast in advocating for the recognition of Dr. Maiyamba as Mai Tangale, warning that political interference will not diminish the community’s determination and that legal avenues will be pursued to uphold rightful leadership.

Despite ongoing provocations, the Tangale community committed to maintaining peace, non-violence, and constitutional order, while calling on local politicians, traditional leaders, and religious figures to prioritize Tangale interests over personal or political ambitions.

The statement concluded that the Tangale people are united, indivisible, and unwavering, regardless of whether they are Christian, Muslim, or followers of traditional beliefs, standing together in solidarity, preserving their heritage, and asserting their right to self-determination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Musa Idris Maiyamba?

Musa Idris Maiyamba is a respected medical doctor who was selected by the Tangale kingmakers in 2021 to be the Mai Tangale, the traditional leader of the Tangale people.

What was the Court of Appeal's ruling?

The Court of Appeal ruled in favor of Governor Inuwa Yahaya's position regarding the chieftaincy, which the Tangale Community Overseas believes undermines their customs and rights.

What actions has TCO taken in response to the leadership dispute?

TCO has reaffirmed its support for Dr. Maiyamba, conducted elections for the Tangale Community Development Association, and called for the cancellation of the annual Pissi Tangale festival to emphasize their stance on the leadership dispute.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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