While the Adamawa government has insisted that its new indigeneship policy is merely a matter of administrative realignment, many political observers see it differently, interpreting the move as a veiled attack against Atiku Abubakar amid deepening political rifts with Governor Fintiri.
Both leaders played key roles within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 elections, but recent developments hint at an increasing rivalry.
Atiku’s recent political engagements with notable figures like Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Senator Aishatu Binani have further fueled rumors of a potential cross-party alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Adding fuel to the fire is a controversial bill currently under review in the Adamawa State House of Assembly.
The proposed legislation would empower the governor to unilaterally remove and replace traditional rulers deemed unsuitable for office.
Critics argue the bill, if passed, would centralize excessive control within the governor’s office and pose a threat to the independence and cultural integrity of the state’s traditional leadership systems.
“This could mark the beginning of the end for the autonomy of our heritage institutions,” warned one concerned traditional council member who asked to remain anonymous.