Aliyu Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Turakin Adamawa, has responded to criticism over his recent visit to the Emir of Fufore, Muhammad Sani Ribadu, dismissing claims that it was a political endorsement of the newly created Emirates in Adamawa State.
The visit drew backlash from some loyalists of the former vice president, who interpreted the gesture as a subtle alignment with Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s controversial creation of new emirates in the state.
Critics argued the move was designed to weaken the influence of the Lamido of Adamawa, Dr Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha, without proper consultation with Atiku, who is the Wazirin Adamawa and second-highest traditional titleholder in the state.
The Emir of Fufore, whom Aliyu visited, is the brother of Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu. Notably, Aliyu is married to the NSA’s daughter, further intertwining the families through marriage.
Political analyst Madu Maiha questioned the motive behind the visit, asking whether it 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 a post on his Facebook page on Saturday, Aliyu Atiku, however, clarified the purpose of the visit, describing it as purely familial and devoid of political undertones.
“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,” he wrote.
He explained that the Emir is an uncle to his wife and the visit was a show of respect and appreciation.
“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,” he stated.
“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 unwavering loyalty to the Lamidon Adamawa, Dr Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha, underlining the honour of being appointed Turakin Adamawa at the young age of 25.
“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 said.
Concluding his statement, Aliyu cautioned critics against politicising his personal life.
“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.”
