The Adamawa State Government has moved to quell growing unease surrounding its proposed overhaul of the state's traditional and chieftaincy councils. Officials robustly deny any political machinations or targeting of specific individuals, insisting the reforms are a crucial step towards modernising and streamlining ancient institutions.
Speaking on Tuesday from Yola, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Iliya James, addressed the media regarding the forthcoming bill before the Adamawa State House of Assembly. He emphasised the administration's commitment to "transparency, fairness, and due process" in all matters pertaining to traditional and administrative affairs, under the leadership of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
"It has come to the government's attention that certain narratives circulating publicly are falsely suggesting political bias or the singling out of individuals," stated Commissioner James. "These assertions are without foundation and do not align with the government's true intentions."
The proposed legislation, he explained, aims to plug significant gaps within the existing traditional leadership framework. Key provisions include establishing clear protocols for the nomination of a stand-in during an Emir or Chief's incapacitation due to illness, a measure prompted by past "leadership vacuums" such as the "disorder" witnessed in the Mbula Chiefdom during the late Murum Mbula’s medical absence.
Furthermore, the reforms seek to rectify perceived "anomalies" in the composition of kingmaker panels. Hon. James highlighted instances where individuals from outside specific emirates currently hold kingmaker positions without clearly defined eligibility. The new law, he asserted, would ensure that only "true indigenes" of the relevant local government areas are eligible for selection.
"With over 100 kingmakers across the state's traditional councils, this new legislation is not designed to target any person or ethnic group," clarified Hon. James. "Its purpose is to guarantee that our traditional institutions operate effectively and genuinely represent the interests of the people of Adamawa."
He reiterated that the traditional institution is a creation of the state parliament, administered by the state government, with the Governor's remit being to enact legislation that serves the populace.
In response to critics, the Commissioner referenced a letter from the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, which he described as "self-explanatory and accessible, even to an elementary school student," providing a comprehensive outline of the reforms.
"The letter confirms that existing traditional titles remain valid," he noted, "but kingmaker roles must be relinquished to allow qualified indigenes of the affected local governments to assume such responsibilities."
Hon. James urged the public to disregard "misinformation" and lend their support to the government's efforts in "preserving peace, enhancing governance, and promoting cultural heritage" through the strategic modernisation of traditional structures.