The Adamawa State Government has issued a new directive mandating that all Kingmakers and members of Traditional Councils across the state must be indigenes of the Chiefdoms or Emirates they represent.
This development follows the creation of new Chiefdoms by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, and aims to reinforce traditional institutions by ensuring that only locals participate in the leadership and advisory structures of their communities.
According to an official circular signed by Adama Felicity Mamman, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs, “All Kingmakers and Council members in the state must be indigenes of their respective Chiefdoms.” The directive specifies, for example, that only individuals from Yola South, Yola North, Girei, Mayo-Belwa, Song, and Zumo Districts can serve as Kingmakers or Council members in the Adamawa Emirate Council. Similarly, only indigenes of Mubi North and Mubi South are eligible to serve in the Mubi Emirate Council.
Analysts say the policy may have implications for prominent figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a native of Jada Local Government Area, which falls under the Ganye Chiefdom. His long-held traditional title, Waziri Adamawa, is tied to the Adamawa Emirate, raising questions about his continued eligibility under the new guidelines.
The title of Waziri Adamawa is widely considered the second most senior traditional position in the Emirate, subordinate only to the Lamido of Adamawa.
