The Adamawa State Government has formally revoked the traditional title of Waziri Adamawa, previously held by former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, citing the implementation of a revised policy affecting emirate and traditional council appointments across the state.
According to reliable sources within the state’s Ministry of Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs, the new directive mandates that only indigenes of a particular chiefdom or emirate are eligible to hold titles or serve as members of the emirate councils within their respective jurisdictions. The policy, which reportedly aims to streamline traditional leadership structures and preserve cultural heritage, has sparked considerable debate due to its political and social implications.
Atiku Abubakar, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was conferred the title of Waziri Adamawa many years ago in recognition of his contributions to the state and his standing within the traditional hierarchy. The title, which translates to “Prime Minister” in many Hausa-speaking emirate systems, placed him as a high-ranking advisor and figure within the Adamawa Emirate Council.
However, the state government’s recent action effectively nullifies his position under the new framework. Officials have stated that the enforcement of the indigene clause is not politically motivated but rather a structural reform designed to return traditional titles to those with direct ancestral links to the domains in question.
The development has been received with mixed reactions across Adamawa State and beyond. Supporters of the former vice president view the move as a thinly veiled political strategy aimed at diminishing his local influence, while others argue that the policy promotes equity and reaffirms the sanctity of indigenous rights within traditional institutions.
As of the time of reporting, Atiku Abubakar has not issued a formal public response to the revocation. Meanwhile, the Adamawa Emirate Council is expected to meet in the coming days to review the implications of the policy on other titleholders and to initiate the process of appointing a new Waziri in line with the state government’s directive.
