The Chamba chiefdom and Yandang ethnic nationality in Adamawa State have declared an end to political support for leaders and aspirants who are not of indigenous origin in their respective local governments.
The declaration was made during an interactive business fora with the Gongola Peoples’ Forum (GPF), which is touring local governments to inaugurate interim executives at ward and council levels.
If implemented, the stance is expected to reshape political calculations in the axis, with potential implications for prominent figures of Fulani minority extraction from the area, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-PDP National Chairman Bamanga Tukur, and Dr. Ardo.
Speaking at meetings with GPF national officials, the two ethnic nationalities said the era of “support politics” was over, insisting it was time to take ownership of leadership in their ancestral lands.
Leaders of the groups, the largest in the Ganye electoral district, lamented what they described as decades of political missteps, arguing that their ancestors had established organized kingdoms as far back as 1750—long before the arrival of those they accused of dominating political power.
“We see no benefit in continuing to support non-indigenous leaders who treat us as subjects on our own land,” the groups said.
They commended the GPF for providing a unifying platform to mobilize indigenous nationalities across the state, describing the movement as an “unstoppable force” for reclaiming political relevance.
The meetings led to the inauguration of interim GPF executives in Toungo, Ganye, Jada and Mayo Belwa Local Government Areas.
Earlier, the forum completed a similar exercise in the Northern Senatorial District, inaugurating executives in Madagali, Michika, Mubi North, Mubi South and Maiha.
Addressing journalists last week, GPF National General Secretary, L.D. Nzadon, who led the first phase of the tour, said the organization had “no place for hate” and was not set up to fight any individual or group.
“GPF is bigger than politics, but we cannot leave our people in the hands of leaders who lack compassion,” he said.
“We are not a political party, but we will continue to work for justice and equity to ensure indigenous peoples take their rightful place in the state.”
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Nzadon praised Governor Ahmadu Fintiri for creating seven chiefdoms and emirates, describing the move as bold and irreversible.
He dismissed fears of policy reversal as unfounded, insisting the new traditional institutions were permanent.
“This is not business as usual. The chiefdoms and emirates have come to stay,” he said.
He also declared the GPF’s resolve to dismantle what he termed the politics of religion and money.
“If you think money will buy votes, think twice. Our people are ready to demystify money politics,” Nzadon warned.
The GPF tour is expected to continue in the Southern and Central Senatorial Districts of the state.
