Wali Adamu, acting Shira chairman, passes away before LGA by-election

The Acting Chairman of Shira Local Government Area in Bauchi State, Alhaji Wali Adamu, has passed away just 13 days before the scheduled by-election to fill the leadership position in the council.

Adamu, who was appointed Acting Chairman in March 2025 following the dismissal of former Chairman Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Beli and his deputy over allegations of misconduct, died on Sunday at the Federal Medical Centre in Azare, after a brief illness.

His death was confirmed by Mukhtar Gidado, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Bauchi State Governor, in a statement issued on Sunday.

Governor Bala Mohammed, in his message of condolence, described Adamu as a dedicated public servant. “Governor Bala Mohammed, on behalf of the government and people of Bauchi State, extends his deepest condolences to the immediate family of Alhaji Wali Adamu, the Katagum Emirate Council, and all citizens of the state over this great loss,” the statement read. The governor also prayed for the late chairman’s family, asking well-wishers to remember them in their prayers.

Before his appointment as Acting Chairman, Adamu had served as a Councillor representing Tumfafi Ward and was also the Leader of the Council.

His leadership was well-regarded, and he was seen as a committed figure in advancing the development of Shira Local Government.

Adamu’s death has thrown the upcoming May 24, 2025, by-election into uncertainty. The Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC), which had been preparing for the election to elect a new chairman and deputy chairman for Shira LGA, is now faced with the challenge of proceeding with the poll under these tragic circumstances.

BASIEC Chairman Mr. Ahmed Makama had recently confirmed that the commission was fully prepared to conduct the by-election.

“We are ready for the election, and we will proceed as planned on May 24, 2025,” Makama had stated.