Project Abstract

Abstract
The emergence of Sarautar Magajin Garin Funtua represents a significant development in the cultural and political landscape of Funtua town in Nigeria. This traditional chieftaincy title has historical roots in the pre-colonial era and has evolved over time to become a symbol of authority and leadership in the community. The Sarautar Magajin Garin Funtua is appointed based on a combination of lineage, personal qualities, and community recognition, making it a complex and prestigious position. This research project aims to explore the historical background, cultural significance, and contemporary relevance of the Sarautar Magajin Garin Funtua title. By conducting interviews with community elders, local historians, and current titleholders, this study seeks to shed light on the traditional practices associated with the title and how it has adapted to modern times. Through a combination of archival research and fieldwork, this research project will analyze the role of the Sarautar Magajin Garin Funtua in governance, conflict resolution, and cultural preservation. By examining the responsibilities and powers vested in the titleholder, this study will provide insights into the traditional leadership structures of Funtua town and their relevance in today's society. Furthermore, this research project will investigate the social and cultural significance of the Sarautar Magajin Garin Funtua title within the broader context of Nigerian chieftaincy systems. By comparing it to similar titles in other communities and exploring its symbolic value, this study aims to highlight the unique features that distinguish the Sarautar Magajin Garin Funtua from other traditional titles in the region. Overall, this research project seeks to contribute to the existing literature on Nigerian chieftaincy institutions and provide a deeper understanding of the cultural dynamics at play in Funtua town. By documenting the history and evolution of the Sarautar Magajin Garin Funtua title, this study will offer valuable insights into the traditions, customs, and values that shape the identity of the community and its leaders.

Project Overview

1.1 Introduction:

The traditional title of Magajin Gari is used only in some part of Hausa land such as Sokoto, Katsina, Kano and Zamfara States. However in other parts of Hausaland, the functions of the Magajin Gari were performed by the Galadima, it was Sultan Muhammad Bello, who in the early 1820s first created the office of the Magajin Garin in Sokoto. The office was introduced among others to assist in the supervision and the administration, as well as to ensure the maintenance of law and order in the metropolis. Magajin Gari is among the most important advisers of the Sultan in matters that include administration and finance.3

Funtua was the Headquarter of Maska district which headed by the Sarkin Maska. Maska town is a few kilometres away from Funtua, it from it from there, the colonial rulers transferred the traditional title to Funtua. In 1915, the Magajin Gari title was introduced in Funtua. The MagajinGariassists the District head (Sarkin Maska) in matters relating to the economic, political, social and religious affairs of the district. With the coming of British colonial masters, the roles of traditional institution declined, but the office of the Magajin Gari continued to play a crucial role in the administrative set-up in Funtua district.

1.2: Statement of the Problem:

The office of Magajin Garin Funtua has been an important institution in the district of Funtua local government with a rich history. A number of scholars like Nasiru Nasiha, who wrote “The History of SarakunanMaska”, Ibrahim Haruna and DahiruCommassie, have wrote on the history of Funtua but little has been written on the palace of Magajin Garin Funtua.

1.3: Significance of the Study:

The significance of this research work lies in the fact that where as it is nearly a century since the establishment of the palace of Village Head.