07/07/2026
*Late Mallam Samu Tubi Bitkon Dinki: The Man Behind the Indigenization of the District Head of Lere in 1969*
As Zaarland commemorates the 50th anniversary of the passing of the legendary Late Mallam Samu Tubi Bitkon Dinki, it is only fitting that we reflect on the life and enduring legacy of a man whose contributions helped shape the history of the Zaar people.
Late Mallam Samu Bitkon Dinki was more than a devoted father. He was a pioneer educator, a respected historian, and a courageous advocate who dedicated much of his life to advancing the cause of the Zaar nation. While some have tried over the years to diminish or even erase his role for personal reasons, history continues to bear witness to his invaluable contribution to the indigenization of the District Headship of Lere in Tafawa Balewa in 1969. His efforts opened the door for the appointment of the first indigenous Zaar District Head from Mwari, a landmark achievement that remains an important chapter in the struggle for justice and representation.
During the administration of General Yakubu Gowon, Mallam Samu Bitkon Dinki joined forces with Zaar undergraduate students at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, to prepare and publish an open letter in several national newspapers. The letter highlighted the challenges facing the Zaar people and called on the Federal Government to recognize their legitimate demand for indigenous traditional leadership in Tafawa Balewa.
The appeal received attention at the highest level. General Yakubu Gowon reportedly directed General Hassan Usman Katsina, then Governor of the North-Eastern State, to address the concerns raised by the Zaar people, including the creation of a Zaar Chiefdom.
Although the Chiefdom was not established at the time, an important step was taken. The Ajiya family was removed from the District Headship of Lere, and an indigenous Zaar man from Mwari was appointed as District Head. That decision marked a turning point in the quest for indigenous representation within the traditional institution.
Despite these historic contributions, Late Mallam Samu Bitkon Dinki has not received the recognition he truly deserves. For someone who devoted his life to protecting the history, identity, and rights of the Zaar people, the lack of meaningful efforts to immortalize him is deeply disappointing.
His ancestral home, Dazara (Mundu), the headquarters of the Morass Clan in Bogoro Local Government Area, is far more than an ordinary village. It is widely regarded by historians and respected elders as one of the cradles of Zaar civilization a place rich in history and central to the cultural identity of the Zaar people. Yet, despite its historical significance, Dazara continues to suffer neglect and remains without a functional access road.
Adding to this disappointment, Dazara (Mundu) was recently denied the status of a Village Area (Gunduma), a decision many people believe was influenced by political considerations rather than historical merit. It is unfortunate when traditional institutions, which should preserve the people's heritage and identity, are seen as instruments for rewarding political loyalty or compensating influential individuals instead of serving the interests of the communities they represent.
As we mark fifty years since the passing of Late Mallam Samu Tubi Bitkon Dinki, we should do more than remember his name. We should honour the values he lived for justice, courage, education, and unwavering service to the Zaar people. His sacrifices helped lay the foundation for progress, and his legacy deserves to be preserved, celebrated, and passed on to future generations. History should never forget those who dedicated their lives to the advancement of their people.
*Madalla Kadiri is a Zaar activist and historian from Bauchi State. He writes on history, identity, and justice in Northern Nigeria*.
