The Adamawa State Government has withdrawn the Waziri Adamawa title from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. This decision follows new rules about who qualifies as a local in the state, which are part of wider changes to traditional leadership systems.

A circular dated June 20, 2025, and signed by Mrs. Adama Felicity Mamman, the Permanent Secretary of the Chieftaincy Affairs Department, confirmed the decision. Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri introduced these changes after creating several new chiefdoms across the state.

The Waziri Adamawa title, one of the most important positions in the Adamawa Emirate after the Lamido, now has new conditions. Only people from six areas—Yola North, Yola South, Girei, Mayo-Belwa, Song, and Zumo—can hold such positions. Atiku is from Jada in the Ganye Chiefdom, which no longer qualifies.

This policy does not affect only Atiku. Other traditional titleholders whose families are not from the listed areas will also be removed. Many leaders across the state are expected to be affected.

While the government claims the change is to improve traditional leadership, some observers believe it has political motives. Governor Fintiri and Atiku Abubakar are both strong members of the PDP, and there have been signs of rising tension between them.

Atiku has recently been seen meeting with top politicians like Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Senator Aishatu Binani. Many think these meetings are part of plans to build an opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The timing of this move also matches a new bill being discussed in the Adamawa State House of Assembly. The bill would allow the governor to remove traditional rulers and appoint their replacements. Critics say this law would give the governor too much power and weaken traditional institutions.

Taking away Atiku’s Waziri title is a major shift in power within the Adamawa Emirate. It may also create deeper political divisions as the 2027 elections draw closer.