By John Umeh
In a surprising and controversial move, the Adamawa State Government has revoked the prestigious traditional title of Waziri of Adamawa conferred on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The decision, according to a statement issued by state authorities, was made in line with the government’s new indigeneship policy aimed at streamlining traditional titles and reasserting indigene-based eligibility for occupying cultural positions.
The revocation marks a significant political and cultural moment in Nigeria, as Atiku Abubakar—one of the country’s most prominent political figures and a long-time son of the soil—has held the revered title of Waziri for several years. The title, traditionally bestowed by the Lamido of Adamawa, is regarded as one of the highest honors in the emirate council and symbolizes trust, leadership, and advisory power in the region.
Policy Shift Sparks Controversy
According to the statement issued by the Adamawa State Ministry of Chieftaincy and Traditional Affairs, the move to revoke Atiku’s title stems from the recent overhaul of the state’s indigeneship policy, which now requires strict verification of ancestral and tribal roots before appointments or honors can be retained or conferred.
“In our effort to preserve the integrity and cultural heritage of the Adamawa Emirate Council, it has become necessary to ensure that all traditional titles are held by individuals who fully meet the indigeneship criteria as defined by current state policy,” the statement read.
Though Atiku has long been associated with Adamawa—having represented the state in the National Assembly and contested multiple presidential elections with its backing—the policy reportedly demands direct lineage tracing to specific ruling clans or historic tribal affiliations within the emirate structure.
Atiku Camp Reacts
Responding to the development, Atiku Abubakar’s media team issued a brief but firm statement describing the revocation as “politically motivated” and “deeply disappointing.” They argued that Atiku’s connection to Adamawa is undisputed and that he has served the state and its people for decades with honor and integrity.
“This decision is not only unfortunate but a deliberate act aimed at diminishing the statesmanship and grassroots appeal of His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, who has always considered Adamawa home in heart and spirit,” the statement noted.
The camp hinted at possible legal or traditional council appeals but maintained that the former Vice President would remain respectful of the emirate’s structures while seeking clarification.
Public Reactions and Political Implications
The development has sparked widespread debate across social and political platforms. Supporters of the PDP presidential candidate see the revocation as a politically charged attempt to undermine his influence in the region, particularly with the 2027 general elections already casting a long shadow.
Others, however, argue that traditional institutions must be allowed to enforce their rules and preserve their cultural authenticity, regardless of the personalities involved.
In Yola and across the broader Adamawa region, reactions have been mixed. Some traditionalists praised the move as a bold step toward restoring integrity to the emirate system, while others questioned the timing and motive behind the decision.
What Lies Ahead
As tensions simmer, all eyes are now on the Lamido of Adamawa, Alhaji Muhammadu Barkindo Mustapha, under whose traditional jurisdiction the Waziri title falls. While the revocation was announced by the state government, it is unclear whether the emirate council was consulted or has issued its own position on the matter.
For Atiku Abubakar, the loss of the Waziri title may not significantly alter his political ambitions, but symbolically, it could represent a fracture in the longstanding relationship between him and his home emirate. Whether this will have any lasting impact on his standing among Adamawa’s electorate remains to be seen.
In a political landscape where symbolism often carries as much weight as policy, this revocation could set the stage for deeper contests—both cultural and electoral—in the near future.
