The History of Abuja and Its First Ruler

Introduction

Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, is a planned city that replaced Lagos as the nation’s administrative center in 1991. Unlike many ancient Nigerian cities with centuries of history, Abuja is relatively young in terms of urbanization. However, the land on which Abuja was built has a deep historical and cultural background tied to the indigenous Gbagyi (Gwari) people and other ethnic groups.

This article explores the history of Abuja, from its pre-colonial roots to its development as Nigeria’s capital. It also examines the traditional rulership system in the region, focusing on the first recognized ruler of Abuja, King Abubakar I, the Sarki of Abuja (now Suleja).

1. Pre-Colonial History of the Abuja Region

Before Abuja became Nigeria’s capital, the area was inhabited by various ethnic groups, primarily the Gbagyi (Gwari), Hausa, Nupe, and Fulani people. The Gbagyi were the original settlers, living in scattered villages and engaging in farming, hunting, and iron smelting.

The Hausa-Fulani Influence

In the early 19th century, the Sokoto Caliphate, led by Usman dan Fodio, expanded its influence into the region. The Fulani jihadists established emirates, and the Abuja area came under the control of the Zazzau Emirate (present-day Zaria).

The Founding of Abuja (Suleja)

The modern history of Abuja began in the early 1800s when Muhammadu Makau, the exiled Hausa ruler of Zazzau, fled from Zaria due to conflicts with the Sokoto Caliphate. He settled in a new location with his followers and established a small kingdom, which he named Abuja—derived from “Abu-Ja,” meaning “Abu the Red” in Hausa, referring to his fair-skinned brother, Abubakar.

This settlement later became known as Suleja (after the 1976 renaming to avoid confusion with the new Federal Capital Territory).

2. The First Ruler of Abuja: King Abubakar I (Sarki Abu Ja)

The first recognized ruler of Abuja was Abubakar I (also called Abu Ja), who took over after his brother, Muhammadu Makau. He became the Sarki (King) of Abuja and established a dynasty that ruled the area for over a century.

Key Facts About Abubakar I:

• Reign: Early 1800s (exact dates uncertain)

• Ethnicity: Hausa

• Title: Sarki of Abuja

• Legacy: Founded the Abuja Emirate, which later became Suleja

Under his rule, Abuja grew as a small but strategic Hausa-Fulani emirate, serving as a trade and Islamic learning center.

The Abuja Traditional Rulers After Abubakar I

After Abubakar I, the throne was passed down through his lineage. Some notable rulers include:

• Ibrahim Dodo (expanded the emirate’s influence)

• Jibrin Isah (ruled during British colonial times)

• Muhammadu Awwal Ibrahim (last Sarki before relocation to Suleja)

In 1976, when the Nigerian government moved the capital from Lagos to Abuja, the original Abuja emirate was renamed Suleja, and the traditional rulers continued their reign there.

3. Colonial Era and the British Influence

During the colonial period, the British incorporated the Abuja emirate into the Northern Protectorate. The emirate maintained some autonomy but was under indirect rule.

Impact of British Rule:

• Taxation and Administration: The British introduced new administrative systems, reducing the emir’s absolute power.

• Infrastructure: Minimal development occurred in the Abuja region, as it was not a major colonial hub.

• Relocation Discussions: As early as the 1940s, British officials considered moving Nigeria’s capital from Lagos due to overcrowding, but no action was taken until independence.

4. Post-Independence: The Decision to Move Nigeria’s Capital

After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, Lagos remained the capital. However, issues like congestion, ethnic dominance (Yoruba land), and security concerns led the government to seek a more centralized location.

Why Abuja Was Chosen:

1. Central Location: Neutral ground for Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.

2. Security: Less vulnerable to coastal attacks.

3. Land Availability: Sparse population allowed for planned development.

In 1976, under General Murtala Mohammed, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was created. The government acquired land from Niger, Kwara, and Plateau States, displacing indigenous communities (mainly Gbagyi people).

5. Construction and Development of Modern Abuja

The development of Abuja was a massive project involving international architects and planners. Key phases included:

Master Plan by International Consortium (1979)

• Designed by International Planning Associates (IPA), a group of American, Greek, and Nigerian firms.

• Inspired by Brasília (Brazil) and Canberra (Australia).

Key Features of Abuja’s Design:

• Three-Armed Zone (Aso Rock, National Assembly, Presidential Villa)

• Districts (Central Area, Garki, Wuse, Maitama, Asokoro)

• Green Areas and Wide Roads

Official Relocation (1991)

• December 12, 1991: President Ibrahim Babangida officially moved the capital from Lagos to Abuja.

6. The Indigenous People and Land Disputes

The original inhabitants of Abuja, the Gbagyi people, were displaced without adequate compensation. Many resettled in neighboring states, leading to ongoing land rights disputes.

Current Status of Indigenous Rights:

• Some compensation has been paid, but many Gbagyi still demand justice.

• The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) controls land allocation, often sidelining natives.

7. Modern Abuja: Nigeria’s Political and Economic Hub

Today, Abuja is a thriving city with:

• Government Institutions (Aso Rock, National Assembly)

• Diplomatic Missions (Embassies, UN Offices)

• Business and Tourism (Jabi Lake, Millennium Park, Nike Art Gallery)

Challenges:

• Rapid Urbanization: Slums and unplanned settlements are growing.

• Security Concerns: Terrorism threats (Boko Haram, kidnappings).

• High Cost of Living: One of Nigeria’s most expensive cities.

8. The Traditional Rulers of Abuja Today

Since the relocation of the capital, the original Abuja Emirate continues in Suleja, Niger State. The current ruler is:

• Alhaji Awwal Ibrahim (Sarki of Suleja)

Meanwhile, the FCT has no single traditional ruler but recognizes various Gbagyi chiefs and district heads.

9. Conclusion

Abuja’s history is a blend of indigenous heritage, Hausa-Fulani influence, and modern urbanization. While the first ruler, Abubakar I, established the original Abuja emirate, the city’s transformation into Nigeria’s capital represents a new chapter in its history.

Despite its planned beauty, Abuja’s development has come at the cost of displacing native communities. Moving forward, balancing modernization with indigenous rights remains a critical challenge.

Abuja stands as a symbol of Nigeria’s unity and ambition, but its full story includes both triumphs and unresolved struggles.