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BREAKING: Atiku Abubakar Stripped of Waziri Adamawa Title in Major Political Earthquake
State cites 'non-indigene' status as tensions rise over 2027 power play

In a dramatic twist with far-reaching political and cultural implications, the Adamawa State Government has stripped Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, of his prestigious traditional title — Waziri Adamawa — the second most powerful seat after the Lamido of Adamawa.

The shocking move, announced in a government circular dated June 20, 2025, also affects other high-ranking title holders and has been widely interpreted as a strategic blow to Atiku’s influence in his native state.

Signed by Mrs. Adama Felicity Mamman, Permanent Secretary of the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs, the directive cites a new state policy mandating that only indigenes of a chiefdom can hold council or kingmaker roles within their respective emirate structures.

“All Kingmakers and Council members from Adamawa Emirate Council must be indigene[s] of Yola South, Yola North, Girei, Mayo-Belwa, Song, and Zumo Districts,” the circular reads.

“Since Atiku is from Jada LGA under the Ganye Chiefdom, he is no longer eligible to hold a title within the Adamawa Emirate Council.”

A Political Chess Move Disguised as Reform?
The decision comes amid rising political tension between Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri and Atiku — once allies under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 elections. Their relationship has soured, especially after Atiku’s recent talks with opposition figures including Aishatu Binani, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai, aimed at forming a new coalition to challenge President Tinubu in 2027.

Many view Atiku’s removal as a calculated attempt to weaken his standing both politically and traditionally in the state.

What’s more, the state government is currently pushing a controversial bill through the Adamawa House of Assembly that would allow the governor to depose any ailing traditional ruler and install a preferred successor. Critics fear this may open the floodgates to unchecked political interference in the state's revered traditional institutions.

Symbolism That Hits Hard
While government officials maintain the action is legal and procedural, the timing and target speak volumes. For many, this isn’t just a routine reshuffle — it’s a power play aimed squarely at a man still seen by millions as a heavyweight contender for Nigeria’s presidency.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna