Fufore Emirate

By Lukman Dahiru

In the rich tapestry of Nigerian history, where tradition meets contemporary governance, HRH Sani Ahmadu Ribadu’s appointment as the King of Fufore Emirate stands as a monumental chapter. The Governor of Adamawa State, His Excellency Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, elevated him to this revered position, not merely acknowledging his royal lineage but affirming his profound dedication, moral integrity, and visionary leadership.

Sani Ahmadu Ribadu, the younger brother of the renowned National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, brings a blend of heritage and modern dynamism to the throne. His journey to this prestigious role has been marked by a life committed to service, community, and the betterment of society. 

Born into a family known for its integrity and public service, Sani has carved his own path, gaining respect and admiration for his family name and his personal merits. He has proven himself not only as a successful farmer but also as a successful politician, having served as Chairman of Yola South Local Government and as a member representing Yola South in the Adamawa House of Assembly. His impact in these roles has been substantial, focusing on grassroots development, agricultural improvement, and fostering a transparent, people-centric governance. 

The significance of his appointment extends beyond the ceremonial; it symbolizes a new dawn for the Fufore Emirate. As king, Sani Ahmadu Ribadu is poised to bridge the ancient customs of his people with the evolving demands of the modern world. His leadership is anticipated to be a beacon of progress, unity, and peace in a region where traditional roles still play a crucial part in community life. His tenure is expected to be characterised by the following.

Cultural Preservation: Sani Ahmadu Ribadu, who deeply understands his heritage, will safeguard and celebrate Fufore’s cultural identity. He will likely champion initiatives to document, preserve, and promote the emirate’s rich traditions, ensuring they are passed down through generations.

Community Development: He is known for his commitment to his people, and he will leverage his position to drive development projects. From education to infrastructure, from health to economic empowerment, his reign is expected to see significant advancements that uplift the living standards of his subjects.

Social Justice and Peace: His background suggests a leadership style that emphasizes fairness, justice, and reconciliation. In a region that has experienced its share of conflicts, his approach could foster greater social harmony, making Fufore a model for peaceful coexistence.

Youth Engagement: Acknowledging the demographic dividend, Sani Ahmadu Ribadu is expected to concentrate on engaging the youth by offering them opportunities for growth, innovation, and participation in governance, therebyensuring the emirate’s future is as bright as its past.

Security and Stability: With his familial ties to national security, there’s an expectation that he will advocate for and implement strategies that enhance local security, working in tandem with state and federal authorities to maintain peace and order.

His appointment has been received with jubilation and optimism, not only within Fufore but throughout Adamawa State and beyond. The community perceives in him a leader who honours tradition while embracing innovation. His governance is expected to be defined by open dialogue, community engagement, and a strong emphasis on sustainable development.

Sani Ahmadu Ribadu’s reign promises to be an era where the past and the future of the Fufore Emirate walk hand in hand under the wise and compassionate leadership of a king who understands that true sovereignty lies in serving one’s people. His legacy, still in its nascent stages, is already shaping up to be one of transformative leadership, where the throne serves as a seat of power and a platform for enduring positive change. 

Here’s to a reign that will be cherished not only for its duration but for the indelible mark it leaves on the heart of Fufore and the broader canvas of Nigeria’s cultural and social landscape.

Lukman Dahiru wrote from Yola via ldahyu@gmail.com.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

No emirate, its Emir’s stool, or palace comes into existence without the foundation of law and authority, coupled with the community’s request, acceptance, loyalty, and support. This straightforward process involves the people’s demand, legislative endorsement, and executive approval.

The creation of the two new emirates and five chiefdoms by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri was guided by two principles: first, the community’s request and demand, and second, the provisions of the Adamawa State Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) Law 2024, which has been formally gazetted and is now part of the state’s statutory framework. Without this law, the governor would lack the power and legal authority to fulfil the community’s requests.

The Fufore Emirate was established based on the demands of the 12 districts and their people. For those suggesting that Gurin, Malabu, and Ribadu or any other districts were coerced into joining the Fufore Emirate, consider the example of Zumo and Song. They chose not to join the new Yungur Chiefdom and remained with the Adamawa Emirate, while Gurin, Malabu, and Ribadu opted to be with Fufore. It’s straightforward: in a democracy, you get what you ask for.

Governor Fintiri didn’t simply wake up one morning and declare, “Let there be Fufore Emirate,” and it came into existence. It was the product of requests, demands, negotiations, mutual understanding, and the backing of law and authority.

There is a popular saying that one cannot cry more than the bereaved. Up to this moment, most of the noise about the creation of the Fufore Emirate is coming from people outside the 12 districts.

None of the 12 districts—Ribadu, Daware, Bengo, Verre, Nyibango, Kofsopah, Malabu, Malabu Kofa, Mayoine, Gurin, Beti, and Wuro Sham.—has filed a petition or challenged the creation of the Fufore Emirate or their inclusion in it. In fact, the heads of all 12 districts were the first to pledge their allegiance and pay homage to the new Lamido of Fufore, His Royal Highness Alhaji Sani Ahmadu Ribadu.

On behalf of the 12 district heads, the District Head of Malabu was both emphatic and unwavering in his expression of loyalty and support for the new Emirate during the reception of the new Emir in Fufore.

The Fufore Emirate, like any other emirate in Nigeria, is a product of law—established by the Adamawa State House of Assembly and gazetted in Adamawa. The emergence of the new Fufore Emirate, its Emir, and the allegiance and support of all 12 district heads and their subjects are outcomes of law, clear legal provisions, government authority, negotiation, and the people’s requests and demands. These are the fundamentals of tradition, custom, and democracy. 

Let us allow the citizens, friends, and neighbours of the Fufore Emirate to celebrate, as this expansion of horizons will foster development and strengthen unity, prosperity, and peace.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.