Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has revoked several traditional titles, including those held by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Governor Boni Haruna, and himself.
The decision follows the restructuring of emirates and chiefdoms across the state.
Governor Fintiri made the announcement during the coronation ceremony of the newly installed Chief of Madagali.
He explained that the restructuring aimed to modernize the traditional system and ensure that all district heads aligned with the newly created emirates and chiefdoms. According to him, traditional titles conferred under the previous jurisdictions were no longer valid under the new structure.
“Hence, traditional titles acquired from the old emirates and chiefdoms are hereby dropped. The constituted traditional councils of the new emirates and chiefdoms, are therefore directed to recommend new titles for approval in line with the statutory dictates of the tradition,” he said.
The restructuring primarily affects titles that were originally awarded under the Adamawa and Mubi emirates. As part of the changes, Governor Fintiri has relinquished his title of Sarki Yaki Mubi. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has lost his title as Waziri Adamawa, while former Governor Boni Haruna has forfeited his title of Makama Mubi. Several other prominent figures have also been affected by the changes.
Interestingly, all the newly created emirates and chiefdoms were formed from the Adamawa and Mubi emirates, where the affected individuals originally held their traditional titles.
Governor Fintiri explained that the creation of new emirates and chiefdoms required a fresh approach to traditional leadership, including the reassignment of titles.
To ensure a smooth transition, the governor directed the traditional councils within the newly established emirates to submit recommendations for new titles. These proposals, he stated, would be carefully reviewed and approved in line with the state’s customary laws and traditions.
Governor Fintiri also clarified the process for reappointment. He stated that the Lamido of Adamawa, as the paramount traditional ruler in the state, could submit the names of Atiku Abubakar, Boni Haruna, and others for reconsideration. However, he said, any new appointments or reinstatements would require final approval from the state government.
