Bauchi boils as deputy governor lands slap on foreign minister during palace event

DDM News

There was mild chaos on Friday at the Emir’s Palace in Bauchi when an alleged physical confrontation broke out between two top political figures.

Bauchi State, located in the northeastern region of Nigeria, is known for its diverse ethnic composition and rich cultural heritage.

The state boasts a variety of landscapes, ranging from lush green fields and rolling hills to expansive savannahs.

This region is also home to several historical sites and natural attractions, including the Yankari National Park, which is renowned for its wildlife and hot springs.

Bauchi State’s capital, Bauchi, serves as a vibrant center where tradition meets modernity, offering a glimpse into the daily life and customs of its people.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Auwal Jatau, reportedly slapped the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, during a heated exchange.

The incident occurred at a high-profile event that combined traditional and family celebrations.

Former Bauchi State Governor, Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, was being turbaned as Makama Babba 1 of Bauchi Emirate.

The event also marked the wedding of Abubakar’s daughter, Khadija Mohammed.

It attracted several prominent guests, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

According to eyewitnesses, trouble started when Minister Tuggar allegedly made negative comments about Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration.

The remarks were said to have angered Deputy Governor Jatau, who found them disrespectful and offensive.

An eyewitness described the moment as shocking and unexpected.

“The Deputy Governor was visibly angry. If not for Vice President Shettima’s quick intervention, it could have turned ugly,” the source said.

The incident is the latest in a long-standing political rivalry between Tuggar and Governor Bala Mohammed.

Tuggar, a staunch critic of the PDP-led government in Bauchi, has frequently spoken against the governor’s policies.

In a January appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Tuggar accused Governor Bala of using national tax reform debates to launch his presidential ambition.

“Governor Bala Mohammed showed clearly that he did not have any sincerity of purpose,” Tuggar said.

“He used the tax bill debate to jumpstart his presidential campaign,” he added.

Governor Bala’s camp did not take the accusation lightly.

His Chief of Staff, Aminu Gamawa, condemned Tuggar’s comments, calling them “opportunistic and undiplomatic.”

Gamawa claimed that the Foreign Minister’s true motive was to position himself for the 2027 Bauchi governorship race.

“Tuggar’s ambition to run for governor is the real reason behind these constant attacks,” Gamawa said.

“But maligning a performing governor won’t help him,” he added.

Gamawa further criticized Tuggar’s handling of his ministerial role.

He accused the minister of being absent from key responsibilities and weakening Nigeria’s diplomatic image.

“His absentee politics and poor performance in foreign affairs have diminished Nigeria’s standing, especially in Africa,” Gamawa remarked.

As of the time of this report, neither the Bauchi State Government nor the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs had issued an official statement.

The silence from both parties has sparked public curiosity and concern.

Nigerians are increasingly worried about the deepening political tensions within the leadership.

Observers fear that personal rivalries could continue to distract from governance and public service.

The confrontation, especially at a cultural and joyous occasion, has shocked many across the country.

It underscores how political hostility has crept into even the most sacred and ceremonial spaces.

Many now wonder whether party loyalty and personal ambition are eclipsing public decorum and national unity.

The incident is likely to remain a talking point in the weeks to come.

Political analysts say it may be a prelude to even deeper conflicts as 2027 approaches.

The country waits to see whether any disciplinary actions or reconciliatory moves will follow.

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