Tafawa Balewa
About
Tafawa Balewa is a local government area in the southern part of Bauchi State in northern Nigeria, covering a town of the same name. Its local government chairman is Sama'ila Wakili Lere, and the area has a total size of 2,451 square kilometres with a population of 395,200 as of 2022.
History
The town takes its name from the Fulani words "Tafari" (rock) and "Baleri" (black). The area has experienced recurring sectarian and ethnic violence over many years, involving the Sayawa, Hausa and Fulani groups, largely over chieftaincy and ownership of the town. In 2011 violence killed 38 people and several villages were burned. In 2012 the local government headquarters was moved to Bununu town, a decision that was condemned by Sayawa elders and later contested in the State House of Assembly.
Key Facts
State
Bauchi State
Headquarters
Bununu
Chairman
Sama'ila Wakili Lere
Area
2,451 km²
Population
395,200