From: Lydia Zakka
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has issued a statement denying reports circulating on social media that he has revoked the traditional titles of all District Heads and title holders in the state. The Governor clarified that the directive only applies to those District Heads who previously held traditional titles from councils that no longer exist, following the creation of new Chiefdoms and Emirates.
Fintiri explained that the District Heads who were affected by the restructuring of the state’s traditional leadership are required to relinquish titles from their former councils and instead seek titles from the new, recognized traditional bodies. This step, according to the Governor, is part of an effort to promote unity, cultural preservation, and harmony among the various traditional institutions within Adamawa State.
“There is no truth to the claim that I have revoked all traditional titles. What I have directed is for those District Heads who hold titles from their previous councils to drop those titles and demonstrate loyalty to their new Chiefdoms and Emirates,” Fintiri clarified. “This is in line with my administration's goal of ensuring that each District Head holds a title that aligns with the heritage and traditions of their people, as recognized by the new Emirate or Chiefdom.”
The directive mandates that Emirs and Chiefs in the newly established traditional councils will have the authority to recommend new titles for the District Heads, but any such titles must be approved in accordance with established cultural traditions.
Fintiri expressed disappointment over the misinformation that has been circulating, which he believes has been fueled by malicious actors using artificial intelligence to manipulate the Governor’s statement. He emphasized that his policy was not aimed at diminishing or disrespecting traditional leaders but was instead designed to ensure that Adamawa’s cultural heritage is preserved and strengthened.
“As a policy, I call on all the district heads concerned to transfer their loyalty, rights, and privileges to the new emirates and chiefdoms. Hence, traditional titles acquired from their old emirates and chiefdoms are to be dropped. The constituted traditional councils of the new emirates and chiefdoms are therefore directed to recommend new titles for the district heads for approval in line with the statutory dictates of the tradition,” Fintiri said in the official statement.
The Governor’s remarks are intended to quell the rumors that have generated concern among traditional leaders and residents of the state. His administration remains committed to promoting progress, unity, and cultural integrity within Adamawa State.
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