Thousands of Fufore indigenes and other Adamawa citizens gathered to witness a historic moment—the presentation of the Staff of Office to Alhaji Sani Ahmadu Ribadu, officially marking his installation as the first Emir of Fufore.
The ceremony, held today (Wednesday) in Fufore town, was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life.
Sani Ribadu’s appointment, made by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, follows the recent creation of seven new emirates and chiefdoms in Adamawa State.
Presenting the Second-Class Staff of Office, Governor Fintiri emphasized that the establishment of the emirates reflects his administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions for improved governance.
“We have enacted the Adamawa State Chiefs Appointment and Deposition Law 2024 to reposition our traditional institutions as integral parts of the government structure,” he stated.
The governor expressed confidence that these emirates would enhance conflict resolution, reinforce local governance, and deepen democracy.
“Starting from Fufore, we are embarking on a journey that will foster unity, bring our people together, and extend governance to previously underserved areas,” Fintiri added.
Dismissing any negative interpretations of the move as unfounded, he described such views as “imaginations far removed from our genuine intentions.”
Governor Fintiri congratulated the new Emir and urged the people of Fufore to support his leadership in building and strengthening the emirate. He reaffirmed that Alhaji Ribadu’s appointment was based on merit and called on him to lead with wisdom, promote unity, and enhance local security through intelligence gathering.
Representing the Lamido of Adamawa, Dr. Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustafa, the Galadima of Adamawa, Alhaji Mustafa Aminu, extended his congratulations to the new Emir and wished him divine guidance.
In his acceptance speech, Emir Muhammadu Sani Ahmadu Ribadu expressed profound gratitude to Governor Fintiri for the appointment and pledged to serve his people with dedication.
“I assure you that under my leadership, everyone will be treated equally, without fear or favor,” he declared, calling for the people’s full support to enable him to fulfill his duties effectively.
The ceremony was graced by traditional rulers from across and beyond Adamawa State, alongside past and present government officials, politicians, and business leaders.
The event featured a vibrant mini durbar procession, cultural displays, and musical performances, adding to the grandeur of the historic occasion.
