Aliyu Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Turakin Adamawa, has dismissed claims that his recent visit to the Emir of Fufore, Muhammad Sani Ribadu, was a political endorsement of the newly created emirates in Adamawa State.
The visit drew criticism from some loyalists of the former vice president, who interpreted it as support for Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s creation of new emirates — a move they allege was designed to weaken the influence of the Lamido Adamawa, Dr Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha. Critics also argued the governor did not consult Atiku, who is the Wazirin Adamawa and the state’s second-highest traditional authority.
The Emir of Fufore is the brother of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. Aliyu is married to Ribadu’s daughter, linking the families by marriage.
Reacting to the backlash in a statement on social media, Aliyu said:
“It has come to my attention that a recent visit I made to the Emir of Fufore has sparked reactions and a wide range of opinions. Some have gone as far as describing the visit as an endorsement of the newly established Fufore Emirate.”
Clarifying his intentions, he said the visit was purely familial:
“It is important to note that the new emir is an uncle to my dear wife… I see nothing wrong with having respectful and courteous relationships with my in-laws. There was life before politics, and life is not all about politics.”
He also reaffirmed his allegiance to the Lamido Adamawa:
“My loyalty to His Royal Highness, Lamido Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha, PhD, is indisputably absolute. His decision to appoint me as the Turaki Adamawa at a record age of 25 is arguably the greatest honour bestowed on me in my life.”
In response to critics, he added:
“If anyone thinks they can cause friction or disharmony within my family by politicising how we lead our modest lives, they need to take their ill-intentioned criticism and obnoxious attitude elsewhere.”
The visit came amid reported tensions between Atiku and Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, adding further intrigue to the political landscape in Adamawa.
