Aliyu Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has cleared the air about his recent visit to the Emir of Fufore, Muhammad Sani Ribadu, following backlash from some of his father’s supporters.
The visit, which took place in Fufore, Adamawa State, led to speculation that Aliyu was giving political support to the new emirates established by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri.
Critics among the loyalists of Atiku Abubakar interpreted the gesture as a tacit endorsement of the new emirates, which they believed were created with the aim of weakening the influence of the Lamido Adamawa, Dr. Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha.
The establishment of the new emirates has sparked controversy, as critics claimed that Governor Fintiri did not consult with Atiku, who holds the position of Wazirin Adamawa, the second-highest traditional title in the state.
In addition to these concerns, the Emir of Fufore, Muhammad Sani Ribadu, is the brother of Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser. The two families are also linked by marriage, as Aliyu Atiku is married to the daughter of the NSA.
Given this relationship, critics raised further doubts about Aliyu’s visit, questioning whether it was an attempt to align himself with political forces opposing his father’s views, especially following reports of a rift between Atiku and Governor Fintiri.
Political commentator Madu Maiha even suggested that the visit could be seen as a betrayal, questioning whether it was “a strategic political manoeuvre for personal gain or an act of self-diminution to appease influential forces for immediate rewards.”
Responding to the backlash, Aliyu took to social media to explain the nature of his visit. He noted, “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 clarified that the visit was simply a gesture of respect for his wife’s family, stating, “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.”
Aliyu further emphasized that his personal life is separate from politics. “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,” he added.
Despite the criticisms, Aliyu made it clear that his loyalty to Lamido Adamawa remains strong, 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.”
Aliyu concluded by addressing the critics, stating, “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.”
