Sarkin Hausawa Nnewi Seeks Inclusion and Electoral Reform for Northern Residents in Anambra

 

Hausa Community in Nnewi Demands Political Recognition, Security, and Unity

NNEWI, ANAMBRA STATE — In a passionate appeal for inclusion, safety, and mutual respect, the Hausa community in Nnewi, Anambra State, has called on the state government and relevant authorities to extend necessary recognition and protection to their people, to foster peaceful coexistence and inclusive development.

The appeal was made by Alhaji Salihu Suleiman during his official inauguration as Sarkin Hausawa Nnewi and chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in the Anambra South Senatorial District. The event, held in the heart of Nnewi North Local Government Area, drew attention to the longstanding concerns and aspirations of the Hausa population living in the area.

Speaking before a crowd of community members, traditional rulers, and political representatives, Alhaji Suleiman emphasized the community’s desire for political relevance, safety, and integration within the socio-political fabric of Anambra State.

“Eighty-five percent of Northerners vote in Anambra,” Suleiman noted, “but most of our people are not registered in one polling area. We have about three thousand people living in Ama Hausa, yet we don’t have a dedicated polling unit.”

He therefore appealed directly to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to create a permanent polling unit in Ama Hausa, Nnewi. According to him, this would significantly enhance voter participation and reinforce the political visibility of the Hausa community in the region.

Alhaji Suleiman’s message extended beyond electoral matters. He called on the Anambra State Government to uphold the promises made during political campaigns, stressing that campaign pledges should not vanish once elections are over. “They should remember that Hausa people live here and support the government,” he said. “All we ask is recognition and cooperation.”

His message was clear: the Hausa community in Nnewi is not only present but actively contributing to the state’s political and economic landscape — and should be treated accordingly.

Alhaji Suleiman also shed light on his own journey to leadership, which officially began on June 12, 2024, when he was appointed Sarkin Hausawa Nnewi and leader of the Northern population in the Anambra South zone. His role, he said, is to serve as a bridge between the Hausa community, the state government, and the indigenous population.

“As a leader, I see it as my duty to ensure that my people are law-abiding and that they live in harmony with the host community,” he stated. He further urged both the Hausa residents and their neighbors in Anambra to continue fostering mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence.

The newly crowned monarch expressed gratitude to Governor Charles Soludo for his efforts in tackling insecurity across the state and praised the administration’s developmental strides. He noted that a secure and well-governed Anambra benefits all communities, including the Hausa population.

“We thank Governor Soludo for improving security and pushing forward with developmental projects. We see the work, and we acknowledge it. All we ask is to be carried along,” Suleiman said.

He concluded with a strong call for unity: “We are not outsiders. We are part of this community. We live here, do business here, raise families here. All we seek is a space where we are seen, heard, and respected.”

As the Hausa community marks this new chapter under Alhaji Suleiman’s leadership, the spotlight is now on both INEC and the Anambra State Government to respond to the call for recognition, inclusion, and sustainable coexistence.