Turaki Adamawa's Endorsement of Fufore Emirate: An Act of Betrayal, Political Strategy, or Self-Demotion?

By MADU MAIHA

The recent visit of Turaki Adamawa, Aliyu Atiku Abubakar, to the newly created Fufore Emirate, where he exp

ressed unwavering loyalty and reverence to the new Emir, HRH Muhammad Sani Ribadu, raises a series of critical questions. His actions are perplexing when viewed in the context of his father, Waziri Adamawa Atiku Abubakar's, strong opposition to the creation of the emirate. Given his royal lineage as a direct descendant and heir apparent of the Adamawa Emirate, a throne that has seen its authority diluted by the emergence of Fufore Emirate, his visit seems contradictory. Additionally, as a council member of the Adamawa Emirate, his actions challenge the very foundation of his influence and position.

Considering these factors, one must examine whether Turaki Adamawa’s actions constitute a betrayal of his father and his emirate, a strategic political maneuver for personal gain, or an act of self-diminution to appease influential forces for immediate rewards.

The Betrayal Factor

The well-documented opposition of Atiku Abubakar to the establishment of the Fufore Emirate makes it difficult to comprehend why his son, who should naturally align with his father’s cause, would act in direct opposition. The Waziri Adamawa is believed to have played a major role in the legal battles seeking to nullify the creation of Fufore Emirate. This suggests that Aliyu Atiku Abubakar’s endorsement of the emirate is not only unexpected but also a blatant disregard for the struggle his father is undertaking.

Political analysts and observers have interpreted Turaki Adamawa’s actions as an outright betrayal of his father’s position and interests. This betrayal is further compounded by the strained relationship between Atiku Abubakar and Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri over several unresolved political disputes. Given Turaki’s standing in the Adamawa Emirate, he should have exercised caution and diplomacy on such a sensitive issue. Instead, his open allegiance to the new Emir of Fufore is seen as an affront to his father’s stance, the Adamawa Emirate, and the broader Fombina kingdom.

Political Considerations

Turaki Adamawa’s decision to endorse the Fufore Emirate despite his father’s strong opposition suggests that political calculations may have influenced his actions. By aligning himself with the new emirate, he might be positioning himself for personal political gains. This move could be interpreted as an effort to remain relevant in the political landscape, especially under the administration of Governor Fintiri, who is at odds with Atiku Abubakar.

Fintiri, being a strong political opponent of Atiku, could be leveraging Turaki’s endorsement to weaken the Waziri’s political influence. By seemingly turning his son against him, Fintiri gains an upper hand in Adamawa’s political dynamics, portraying Atiku Abubakar as either inconsistent or lacking control over his own family’s political loyalties. Such a perception could erode Atiku’s influence among his supporters and political allies, potentially costing him significant goodwill in future political endeavors.

For Turaki, his actions might be a calculated attempt to carve out an independent political identity, separate from his father’s legacy. However, the ramifications of this move could be far-reaching, as he risks alienating not just his father but also the larger Adamawa Emirate, whose loyalty largely remains with Atiku Abubakar.

Marriage Ties to the NSA’s Family

Another critical factor that could have influenced Turaki Adamawa’s decision is his marriage to the daughter of Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA). It is widely believed that Ribadu played a significant role in the establishment of the Fufore Emirate. Given this connection, Turaki’s endorsement of the emirate could be seen as a gesture of loyalty and solidarity with his in-laws.

Supporting the Fufore Emirate may open doors for greater patronage and opportunities for Turaki through his father-in-law’s influence. This marriage connection presents a complex dynamic in which familial obligations may have overridden his allegiance to his father and his emirate. If true, his actions may not necessarily be about betrayal or political maneuvering but rather a calculated move to align himself with a more powerful and influential bloc within the Nigerian political landscape.

Atiku’s Children and Their Apparent Lack of Loyalty

Turaki Adamawa’s endorsement of the Fufore Emirate also highlights a broader pattern among Atiku Abubakar’s children, many of whom have been accused of failing to stand by their father during critical moments.

Adamu Atiku Abubakar, a current cabinet member in the Adamawa State government, has similarly been accused of not prioritizing his father’s interests. Like Turaki, he played a role in the balkanization of Ganye Chiefdom, which was against Atiku’s wishes. Despite the ongoing conflict between Atiku and Governor Fintiri, Adamu has chosen to remain in the government rather than resign in solidarity with his father. This decision has been perceived as an indication of personal ambition taking precedence over familial loyalty.

A similar scenario played out when Fatima Atiku Abubakar served as a commissioner in the APC-led government. When Atiku Abubakar left the APC to join the PDP in pursuit of his presidential ambition, Fatima remained with the APC and even worked against her father’s political interests. This pattern suggests that Atiku, despite his political influence and fatherly support, has struggled to maintain unwavering loyalty from his children.