A chieftaincy dispute in the Gwanara Emirate Council of Baruten Local Government Area, Kwara State, has intensified following the appointment and installation of a new village chief for the Kontubaru community. The conflict has pitted the Emir of Gwanara, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Sabi Abdullahi Idris OFR (Kotokotogi II), against factions in Gorobani and Kontubaru, two communities with a long history of coexistence.

Background to the Dispute

The communities of Gorobani and Kontubaru have lived side by side for decades. Historical accounts reveal that Kontubaru was the first to settle in the area, with Gorobani establishing their community nearby at a later date. Despite their close proximity, both communities maintained distinct identities while sharing a single village chief from Gorobani—a tradition that preserved peace and harmony for years.

The dispute began after the demise of the previous Gorobani chief. The first selection process conducted by the Gwanara Emirate Council produced Mallam Belgore as the new chief. However, this outcome was annulled by the Baruten Local Council, which conducted a second election that led to the appointment of Mallam Idris Iyanduro. Kontubaru residents alleged foul play in the second process, fearing it could compromise their community's identity.

Kontubaru Demands Separate Leadership

In response to their concerns, the people of Kontubaru requested a separate chieftaincy title, which the Gwanara Emirate Council approved. On January 7, 2025, Mallam Belgore, the winner of the first selection process, was installed as the first chief of Kontubaru in a ceremony attended by community members and dignitaries.

Legal and Police Intervention

Hours after the turbaning ceremony, the Emir of Gwanara was served with a court injunction dated the same day, restraining him from proceeding with the installation of Mallam Belgore. The injunction stemmed from a petition by the newly installed chief of Gorobani, Mallam Idris Iyanduro, who argued that the installation violated an existing court order.

The Divisional Police Officer of Gwanara subsequently notified the Kwara State Commissioner of Police of the matter. The Magajin Geri of Gwanara, Alhaji Ahmed Oyoru, and another emirate official were invited to provide statements regarding the chieftaincy appointments. They complied with the invitation and have since returned to Gwanara.

Current Status

The chieftaincy titles of Gorobani and Kontubaru are not officially graded, underscoring their local nature within the emirate council structure. Despite this, the dispute has threatened the long-standing harmony between the two communities, with both sides holding firm to their positions.

Efforts to mediate and resolve the issue are ongoing, as stakeholders seek to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the region.