Aliyu Atiku Abubakar, the Turaki Adamawa and son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has addressed the controversy surrounding his visit to the Emir of Fufore, Muhammad Sani Ribadu, amid accusations that it was a political endorsement of the newly created emirates in Adamawa.
The visit had sparked criticism among some of the former vice president’s supporters, who interpreted it as a tacit endorsement of the emirates established by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri.
Critics claimed the creation of these emirates was intended to reduce the influence of the Lamido Adamawa, Dr. Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha, and argued that Governor Fintiri had not consulted Atiku, who holds the traditional title of Wazirin Adamawa and is the second-highest traditional figure in the state.
The Emir of Fufore is the brother of National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and both families are connected by marriage, as Aliyu is married to the NSA’s daughter.
Some critics suggested that the visit could be seen as aligning with political interests that conflicted with his father’s, particularly in light of the reported fallout between Atiku and Governor Fintiri.
Commentator Madu Maiha raised concerns, questioning whether the visit was “a betrayal of his father and his emirate, a strategic political manoeuvre for personal gain, or an act of self-diminution to appease influential forces for immediate rewards.”
In response to the backlash, Aliyu clarified the purpose of his visit in a statement posted on social media.
He 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.”
Aliyu further explained: “It is important to note that the new emir is an uncle to my dear wife. My wife continues to stand by me, my siblings, and my extended relatives at all times, including during joyful and unpleasant moments.”
“As her husband, I appreciate and value such acts of kindness and respect. Indeed, I believe such deeds deserve reciprocity. On that note, I see nothing wrong with having respectful and courteous relationships with my in-laws.”
He continued, “There was life before politics, and life is not all about politics. I am grateful to my parents for raising my siblings and I in a manner that recognises this distinction.”
Aliyu also reaffirmed his loyalty to the Lamido Adamawa, saying, “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.”
He concluded by saying, “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.”
