SAFEGUARDING CULTURAL RIGHTS AND TRADITIONAL FREEDOM: A BIBLICAL AND LEGAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE GUNG ZAAR MOVEMENT IN PUSJI "TAFAWA BALEWA" LGA, BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA


By: Mbami Iliya Sabka
Zaar Socio Cultural Human Rights Promoter and Defender

The Gung Zaar movement, spearheaded by the Zaar majority populists, stands as a testament to the significance of cultural rights and traditional freedom in Nigeria. Rooted in the principles of self-determination, the movement declares the Traditional Freedom of the Zaar Kingdom dated 12th Day of December, 2009; and appointed Air Commode Ishaku Komo (Rtd) as the substantive Gung Zaar. This essay explores the legitimacy of the Gung Zaar movement, drawing upon Biblical scriptures, ancient Zaar cultural heritage, and relevant international laws and treaties that Nigeria is a signatory to.

The Gung Zaar movement aligns with the Biblical principle of self-determination and the recognition of God-given cultural rights. Citing the declaration of Traditional Freedom as an exercise of their cultural rights, the movement draws parallels to the biblical narrative of individuals asserting their rights under divine authority. The emergence of Air Commode Ishaku Komo (Rtd) as the Gung Zaar is positioned as inline with Zaar ancient traditional cultural heritage guidelines, mirroring biblical principles of righteous leadership.

Scriptural Reference: "Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery." - Galatians 5:1

Nigeria, as a signatory to various international laws and treaties, is obligated to uphold cultural rights and traditional freedom. The Gung Zaar movement's assertion of these rights finds support in international instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The unlawful incarceration of the Gung Zaar is denounced as a violation of traditional rights, echoing the international community's commitment to protecting cultural heritage.

Legal Reference: "Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief." - Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 18(1)

The Gung Zaar movement defends itself by emphasizing adherence to Zaar ancient traditional cultural heritage guidelines in the selection of their Traditional Ruler. The movement criticizes perceived interlopers who, unfamiliar with Zaar traditions, create confusion and disorder by deviating from established cultural norms. This aligns with the biblical notion of respecting and preserving cultural heritage.

Cultural Reference: "Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set." - Proverbs 22:28

In conclusion, the Gung Zaar movement serves as a poignant example of the intersection between cultural rights, traditional freedom, and divine authority. By grounding its claims in biblical scriptures, Zaar ancient traditions, and international legal frameworks, the movement asserts its legitimacy and challenges the actions that undermine their cultural heritage. As the Gung Zaar movement navigates the complexities of the Nigerian socio-political landscape, it stands firm in its commitment to securing and preserving the Traditional Freedom of the Zaar Kingdom.

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