The newly sworn-in Chairman of Zaki local government area of Bauchi State, Ibrahim Chiroma was seen crying profusely last night while taking his oath of office and struggling to catch up with the lines while tears took over his eyes.

His Principal, late Masud Aliyu Umar had died last Sunday on his way from Bauchi to Zaki after a stakeholders meeting of the Allied People’s Movement (APM). Masud’s tenure was brief as he was elected on 17th August, 2026.

The swearing-in was held low-key inside the Deputy Governor’s mini conference with few state officials, signifying the mourning mood of the people of Zaki.

The Chief Judge of the State, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, who was represented by Justice Sa’ad Muhammad Sambo presided over the oath of office.

Governor Bala Mohammed, represented by his Deputy, Hon. Auwal Jatau, congratulated the new chairman and urged him to justify the confidence reposed in him through effective leadership and dedicated service.

Jatau said Chiroma’s emergence came at a difficult time for the political team following the death of Masud, whom he described as a loyal and committed leader.

He urged the new chairman to sustain the values of loyalty, teamwork and commitment demonstrated by his predecessor.

The deputy governor also tasked Chiroma with making the protection of lives and property a priority, noting that local government leadership carried responsibilities beyond the immediate constituency.

He advised him to maintain good working relationships with political superiors, colleagues and residents of the area, adding that his conduct would play an important role in shaping his political future.

“What you are today is a result of what you were yesterday, while what you shall become tomorrow largely depends on how you behave and relate with your superiors as well as those you govern,” Jatau said.

He further called on the new chairman to collaborate with other party stakeholders towards securing electoral victories at the state and national levels. (Guardian)