Group urges unity, Peace in Zaar Community ahead Lemb Zaar cultural festival

By Samuel Luka, Bauchi

A group known as Young Leaders Network has called for unity and peace building among the Zaar people as they prepare to hold this year’s Lehmb Zaar annual cultural festival in Tafawa Balewa local government area of Bauchi state.

A press statement signed and made available to newsmen in Bauchi by the group’s Executive Director, Seun Justin Onarinde on Thursday, emphasized the need for the preservation of the Zaar rich cultural heritage for the peace and development of Bauchi state and the future generations.

The Young Leaders Network (YLN) also expressed deep concern over the recent suspension of the 2024 Lemb Zaar Festival by the Nigerian Police Force which cited violent clashes among various factions within the Zaar (Sayawa) community as reason.

“While we acknowledge the security concerns cited by the authorities, we believe that the cancellation of this significant cultural event risks further alienating the
Zaar people and undermining the peace, unity and development of Bauchi State”, the group said.

YLN condemned the acts of violence and disharmony that have marred recent meetings between the different groups, including the Zaar (Sayawa) Development Association (ZDA), the Coalition of Zaar
(Sayawa) Development Association, among others.

“These internal disputes, while disheartening, should not be allowed to strip the Zaar people of their cultural heritage, which has been a source of pride and unity for generations”, the YLN said.

The group called on the leadership of the various factions to put aside their political differences and personal interests and to prioritize the collective good of the Zaar people and the preservation of their rich cultural
traditions.

“The Lemb Zaar Festival, as a celebration of Zaar identity and heritage, plays a critical role in
fostering unity, peace, and development within the Sayawa Kingdom and across Bauchi State”, the YLN said.

The group pointed out that the
suspension of the cultural festival could lead to further division and marginalization of the Zaar people.

YLN which emphasized the Importance of Peace, Unity, and Cultural Preservation, noted that the preservation of cultural heritage is not just a matter of tradition but it is vital for the social cohesion and
development of any community.

The group observed that the Lemb Zaar Festival provides an opportunity for the Zaar people to come together, celebrate their history, and reinforce their cultural identity.

The press statement added that the festival promotes community ties, social harmony, and the peaceful coexistence of different groups within Bauchi State.

“YLN believes that peace and security can only be achieved when the community stands united. The
current disharmony threatens to erode the very essence of Zaar culture and tradition, which has always
been rooted in peace and solidarity”, the release said.

It urged all factions to return to the table, engage in constructive
dialogue, and find common ground in the interest of peace and cultural preservation.

The group calling for reconciliation and Forward Planning of the festival, appealed to the leadership of the ZDA, Coalition of ZDA, Gung Zaar Kingdom, and all factions of ZAYODA to forgive past grievances, suspend their internal differences, and work towards the collective good of the Zaar people.

“The Lemb Zaar Festival should not be a battleground for political supremacy; it should be an avenue for peace, cultural celebration and unity.

The group which kicked against the outright cancellation of the festival, recommended that the authorities work closely with community leaders to ensure that the festival is celebrated in a safe and secure environment.