By Rayyanu Bala

Yesterday,  His Royal Highness, the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Mohammad Bage, marks six remarkable years on the throne of his forefathers, we celebrate not only the passage of time but the depth of his wisdom, leadership, and commitment to the people of Lafia and Nasarawa State. His reign has been a beacon of hope, progress, and unity in an era that requires strength and vision to navigate the challenges of modernity.

In these six years, His Royal Highness has consistently exemplified what it means to lead with dignity and integrity. Through his deep understanding of the importance of tradition, culture, and the rule of law, he has ensured that Lafia continues to thrive as a community deeply rooted in its heritage while embracing the future with an eye on progress and inclusivity. His leadership has been a harmonious blend of justice, compassion, and foresight.

The Emir has also been a staunch advocate for peace, education, and the welfare of his people. His tireless efforts to promote dialogue, resolve conflicts, and create platforms made him a trusted leader not just in Lafia but across Nasarawa state. His voice is one of reason in times of uncertainty, offering hope where there may otherwise be despair.

As we reflect on his tenure, we cannot forget the tremendous role he plays in preserving the cultural identity of Lafia, all while encouraging development and modernity. His vision for the future is one where the rich traditions of the people are not only respected but also serve as the foundation for sustainable progress and harmony.

Here I wish to reflect once again on a piece I wrote extolling the virtues of Justice Sidi Mohammad Bage when he was selected as Emir of Lafia six years ago. I find the piece still relevant today, so I am reproducing it here for your reading pleasure. Happy reading.

Justice Sidi Mohammad Bage, the 17th Emir of Lafia, is a man who abhors injustice in all its forms. He is a person whose humility knows no bounds, and whose compassion transcends all known boundaries. Since his emergence as the 17th Emir of Lafia, following his selection by the kingmakers and subsequent endorsement by the Governor of Nasarawa State, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, the accolades pouring in from all corners have been overwhelming. The common thread in all these praises is his integrity, humility, and compassion.

Justice Sidi Bage’s character traits are legendary, and his reputation for benevolence and integrity is so well-established that even the most discerning minds cannot help but appreciate his selection as the 17th Emir of Lafia. I grew up knowing Justice Sidi Bage as a man of simplicity, and from my limited knowledge of him, he is one person who never allows worldly possessions to overshadow his logical thinking. Those who know Justice Sidi Bage can attest to the fact that he is a man of integrity.

I have two personal experiences with the new Emir of Lafia that I cannot help but share.

The first encounter with Justice Sidi Bage’s simplicity and humility happened between 1976 and 1977 (I cannot recall the exact year). He had bought a Honda Benly motorcycle from Alhaji Salihu Mairafi (Sadami) and instructed his late younger brother, Usman Bage (Daraja), who was a close friend of mine, to go and collect it from Sadami’s showroom at ‘Raleigh,’ near GSS Lafia junction. Daraja and I, not knowing how to ride a motorcycle, set off to collect the bike. After a second thought, I impulsively mounted the brand-new Honda Benly. Unfortunately, we had an accident on our way to Unguwar Doka, though we were unharmed, the bike was badly damaged. We were terrified about how Justice Bage would react to the mishap, especially since owning a Honda Benly in those days was a symbol of pride. To our surprise, when Justice Bage received the news of the accident, he remained calm and only inquired about our health. This experience exemplifies the simplicity, composure, compassion, and humility of the 17th Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage.

My second experience occurred when Justice Bage served as a magistrate in Barkin Ladi. This incident also involved the late Usman Bage (Daraja). A man with a case in Justice Bage’s court decided to gift him a ram, without Justice Bage’s consent. Without permission, Daraja slaughtered the ram and stored the meat in their freezer. When Justice Bage came home and discovered the meat, he immediately inquired about it. Daraja explained the situation, and Justice Bage became furious, reprimanding him for taking such an initiative. He then directed Daraja to load all the meat into his car, and they drove to the man’s house, where Justice Bage offloaded the meat with a stern warning. He told the man that he was not the type to be tempted, stressing that he dispensed justice without fear or favor. He assured the man that if his case was just, he would rule in his favor, but if it was not, he would not hesitate to rule against him.

Justice Bage’s response in this situation reflected the guiding principles he upheld throughout his judicial career, which eventually led to his promotion as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Undoubtedly, Justice Sidi Bage is a benevolent man. His generosity knows no bounds and transcends all forms of human affiliation and diversity. His character commands respect from people of all ages, social classes, and backgrounds. His selection by the kingmakers as the Emir of Lafia is a triumph of integrity, humility, compassion, and benevolence.

Justice Bage’s ascent to the royal throne of Lafia Emirate was marked by grandeur. His entry into Lafia, accompanied by a long convoy of well-wishers and royal courtiers from his residence in Abuja, was nothing short of spectacular. True to his character, Justice Sidi Mohammad Bage, in his maiden address to the people of Lafia, emphasized unity and collective development. “I remind the people of the Emirate that we are one; we must unite to develop the Emirate, and I pledge to be just in my dealings with all,” he said.

As the people of Lafia and Nasarawa State prepare to celebrate his coronation as the 17th Emir of Lafia on the 3rd of May, 2019, what resonates most in their hearts are praises to Almighty Allah for providing them with Justice Sidi Mohammad Bage as their new Emir and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs.

Congratulations, Your Royal Highness.

Allah Yaja Zamanin Sark!