Fufore Emirate: Professor Alkasum Abba’s Selective Amnesia, Matters Arising

By Treasure Moses

The recent establishment of the Fufore Emirate by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has ignited a firestorm of debate and dissent among stakeholders in the region, with many questioning the implications for the historic Fombina Emirate. Among the most vocal critics is Professor Alkasum Abba, a respected historian and academic, who has vowed to challenge the creation of the emirate in court.

Yet, his newfound activism raises eyebrows and questions regarding his previous silence on significant historical alterations within the emirate.

In a press conference that has garnered considerable attention, Professor Abba articulated his concerns, asserting that the formation of the Fufore Emirate represents an “onslaught” against the Fombina Emirate and aims to undermine the influence of the Fulbe race. Critics of the emirate’s creation, including Abba, argue that it is a calculated move by Governor Fintiri to disrupt the intricate social fabric of the region, a sentiment echoed by various factions within the community.

Abba’s historical reticence during previous alterations—such as the controversial transfer of traditional titles and positions—casts doubt on his current stance

However, Mustapha Atiku Ribadu, in a thought-provoking commentary, challenges the professor’s sudden urgency to protest the changes in the Emirate’s landscape. He points out that Abba’s historical reticence during previous alterations—such as the controversial transfer of traditional titles and positions—casts doubt on his current stance. Ribadu’s critique highlights a perceived pattern of selective engagement, suggesting that Abba’s activism may be driven more by personal interests than by a genuine commitment to preserving historical integrity.

It is perplexing that he has remained silent during other critical junctures that have eroded the Fombina Emirate’s authority

“While I respect the professor’s right to seek judicial intervention,” Ribadu writes, “it is perplexing that he has remained silent during other critical junctures that have eroded the Fombina Emirate’s authority. His inconspicuousness in the face of historical distortions raises questions about the sincerity of his claims to be a guardian of tradition.”

Citing specific instances, Ribadu recalls how the title of Galadima, once held by Abba’s family, was controversially reassigned, yet the professor did not voice any opposition. Similarly, the relocation of the Wali Adamawa title to Hong and the Wazirin Adamawa title to Ganye passed without his dissent. These omissions speak volumes about his selective memory regarding the emirate’s evolving history.

Moreover, Ribadu notes the historical context of the Adamawa Emirate, which has faced significant reductions in size and influence over the years. He argues that the creation of new emirates and chiefdoms is merely a continuation of this trend, and that those who oppose the Fufore Emirate must confront the reality that change is an inherent aspect of life and governance.

The implications of this new administrative division extend beyond mere titles; they touch on issues of identity, influence, and the preservation of a shared heritage

In a somewhat ironic twist, Ribadu recalls Abba’s past opposition to the establishment of Adamawa State University, a project that ultimately saw the professor in a leadership role as vice-chancellor. Ribadu muses that, given the cyclical nature of history, it would not be surprising if Abba eventually finds himself in a significant position within the Fufore Emirate.

The history of the Fombina Emirate is far from settled, and the voices within it—be they for or against the recent changes—will continue to shape its future

As tensions simmer over the creation of the Fufore Emirate, the community watches closely. The implications of this new administrative division extend beyond mere titles; they touch on issues of identity, influence, and the preservation of a shared heritage. Whether Professor Abba’s legal challenge will gain traction remains to be seen, but the discourse surrounding it has certainly illuminated the complexities of tradition, change, and the politics of memory in the Fombina region.

In this delicate balance of tradition and modernity, one thing is clear: the history of the Fombina Emirate is far from settled, and the voices within it—be they for or against the recent changes—will continue to shape its future.