The Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, has issued a significant decree that alters the administrative landscape of the North-West Region. In a move that has sparked controversy and raised eyebrows among observers, Minister Atanga Nji has signed a release upgrading the status of Njinibi, a village in the Mbengwi sub-division, to a full-fledged Subdivision.
According to MINAT ORDER No. 00000015/0/MINAT OF 05 MARCH 2024, effective immediately, Njinibi is elevated from a 3rd Class Chieftaincy to a 2nd Class Chieftaincy, with its administrative headquarters now established in Njinibi, Njinibi Sub-division, Momo Division, North-West Region.
The Minister’s decision has been met with criticism from some quarters, with accusations of procedural irregularities and questions about the timing of the move. “Minister Paul Atanga Nji has held office for six years now and he has unilaterally created a subdivision without following due process; this is unprecedented,” remarked Chick, a resident of Mbengwi.
Speculation has also arisen on social media platforms, with one user suggesting that the creation of the new subdivision might be a strategic move ahead of upcoming elections. “The Minister’s sudden creation of a new subdivision seems suspicious; perhaps they are redrawing administrative boundaries in preparation for next year’s elections, or it could simply be an error,” remarked the user.
Despite the controversy, the MINAT boss has outlined the areas falling under the jurisdiction of the newly established “Njinibi Subdivision”. This includes Gundom, Kob, Mbemi, Wumnebit, Chenam, and Barakwe third class chiefdoms.
His Royal Highness Fon Marcu, was enthroned as the traditional ruler of Njinibi in December 2022, however, his enthronement was not without its disputes, as some villagers contested his claim to the throne.
The creation of “Njinibi Subdivision” marks a significant change in the administrative structure of the Momo Division and is sure to be a topic of ongoing discussion and debate in the region.
