Fintiri’s Folly: Adamawa Politics Faces Reckoning as Emirate Reforms Spark Controversy

By Treasure Moses

In a candid interview, prominent Adamawa politician Umar Bello Jada, popularly known as Calculate, has condemned the recent creation of new emirates and chiefdoms by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, labeling the move a political blunder that will inevitably unravel. The governor’s decision has ignited a fierce debate over the future of traditional institutions in the state, with Calculate alleging an unseen hand orchestrating the balkanization of Adamawa and Mubi emirates.

I know the folly will naturally fizzle out with time

Calculate argues that Fintiri’s actions are not just misguided but a direct affront to the historical and cultural legacies of the regions affected. “If not for the fact that people have been inundating me to speak on the contentious issue, I would not have commented on it because I know the folly will naturally fizzle out with time,” he stated, emphasizing that the governor’s maneuvers aim to divert attention from the pressing issues of hunger, insecurity, and economic hardship faced by the populace.

He further claimed that Fintiri’s strategy is a self-destructive path, warning that the political fallout from this decision will be catastrophic for the governor. “What he is doing will be his greatest political nemesis,” Calculate asserted, drawing parallels to historical precedents in other states where similar actions led to political ruin for the leaders involved.

Political attempts to divide traditional institutions often backfire

Historical Context and Political Fallout

Reflecting on past events in states like Kano and Bauchi, Calculate noted that political attempts to divide traditional institutions often backfire. He recounted how former governors like Isa Yuguda in Bauchi faced severe political consequences after disrupting traditional structures, suggesting that Fintiri’s actions may lead to a similar backlash.

If you deny Sukur people a chiefdom, it shows you are creating the chiefdoms to suit your personal whims

Calculate pointed out that the new chiefdoms lack deep historical significance, citing the Sukur people, who have long-standing historical claims to leadership, as an example of marginalized communities left out of the new administrative structures. “If you deny Sukur people a chiefdom, it shows you are creating the chiefdoms to suit your personal whims,” he remarked, underscoring the perceived arbitrariness of the governor’s decisions.

Public Sentiment and Future Implications

While Calculate does not foresee immediate public unrest in reaction to the new chiefdoms, he predicts a significant electoral backlash in the upcoming 2027 elections. “Adamawa masses will never revolt over the development but will keenly wait till 2027 when they will also deal a fatal blow to Fintiri and all those who backed his irrational and imperious actions,” he stated confidently.

He argued that the governor’s actions have created a political landscape ripe for retribution, as constituents feel demoted and marginalized. “Instead of promoting the ethnic nationalities, the governor ended up humiliating them by showing the world that they are lesser beings,” Calculate charged, highlighting a growing sentiment of discontent.

There is a general consensus in Nigeria that Atiku is the man to beat come 2027

Political Maneuvering and Atiku Abubakar’s Influence

Turning to the broader political implications, Calculate suggested that the creation of new emirates may be influenced by national dynamics, particularly concerning former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who has significant political capital in the region. He speculated that political actors in Abuja may have an interest in undermining Atiku’s influence, suggesting that Fintiri’s actions could be part of a larger scheme to destabilize the former vice president’s standing.

Despite Atiku’s previous electoral setbacks, Calculate expressed optimism about his potential resurgence in 2027, claiming that widespread support is building around him. “There is a general consensus in Nigeria that Atiku is the man to beat come 2027,” he declared, indicating that the political tides may be turning in favor of the former vice president.

The actions taken by Fintiri could have lasting repercussions, not only for his administration but for the very fabric of traditional governance in the region

Conclusion: A Call for Reflection

As Adamawa State navigates this contentious period, Calculate’s insights present a cautionary tale for political leaders and constituents alike. The actions taken by Fintiri could have lasting repercussions, not only for his administration but for the very fabric of traditional governance in the region. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the political landscape remains charged, and the citizens of Adamawa are poised to make their voices heard. Whether Fintiri’s folly will lead to his political demise or pave the way for a new political order remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the people are watching closely.