In a surprising development, the Adamawa State Government has stripped former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar of his traditional title, Waziri Adamawa. Officials cited the reason that Atiku is not an indigene of the area governed by the Adamawa Emirate Council. The announcement, detailed in a circular dated June 20, 2025, has triggered widespread political reactions both within the state and beyond.
According to the circular signed by Mrs. Adama Felicity Mamman, Permanent Secretary for Chieftaincy Affairs, new rules now require all traditional title holders and council members to hail from specific local governments aligned with each chiefdom. As a native of Jada Local Government under the Ganye Chiefdom, Atiku is no longer deemed eligible to hold a title in the Adamawa Emirate.
Many observers view the move as politically motivated, particularly in light of rising tensions between Atiku and Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. While both were members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 elections, recent reports suggest Atiku has been in talks with Fintiri’s political opponents, potentially forming a new coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Further complicating matters is a proposed bill currently before the Adamawa State House of Assembly. If passed, the legislation would grant the governor sweeping authority to remove and install traditional rulers, a development critics say could increase political interference in cultural institutions.
Adding to the growing concern, Alhaji Aliyu Welgi, a public affairs analyst from the North-Central region, told reporters he believes the executive is trying to curb the political and traditional influence wielded by Northern leaders like Atiku.