Mubarak Shuaybu Shelleng
By Muhammad B. Muhammad
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has officially crowned His Royal Highness, Dr. Ali Danburam, as the Ptil Madagali, marking the sixth coronation in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen traditional institutions.
Speaking at the coronation ceremony in Gulak, the ancestral headquarters of Madagali Local Government, Governor Fintiri emphasized the importance of creating emirates and chiefdoms to foster unity, restore dignity, and bring governance closer to the people.
He described the moment as deeply personal, highlighting his roots in Madagali and his administration’s dedication to historical recognition and communal growth.
“This coronation is not just the installation of a traditional ruler; it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to justice, fairness, and the restoration of the dignity of our people,” Governor Fintiri stated.
The governor reflected on the devastation caused by Boko Haram, acknowledging how Madagali was once under siege, with homes destroyed, families displaced, and life disrupted. However, he praised the resilience of the people, emphasizing that their spirits could not be broken.
“Madagali is a land of warriors. We refused to be defined by fear. Through strong leadership, collaboration with security forces, and the unwavering spirit of our people, we reclaimed our communities and restored peace,” he said.
Governor Fintiri assured that the newly established Madagali Chiefdom is here to stay, declaring that traditional institutions should reflect the history, culture, and aspirations of the people.
He called on the people to rally behind their new ruler, pledging that the government would support the Chiefdom in fostering peace, development, and economic prosperity.
Addressing the newly crowned Ptil Madagali, Governor Fintiri urged him to lead with wisdom, fairness, and a commitment to progress.
He emphasized the need to revive local industries, such as pottery, iron smithing, garment making, and artisanship, as well as to harness the potential of the Sukur UNESCO World Heritage Site for economic sustainability.
“With this coronation, you are now the paramount ruler of all the ethnic identities in Madagali Local Government. You have a duty to unite the people, prioritize security, and guide the youth away from crime and other vices,” the governor charged.
Governor Fintiri also directed district heads to transfer their loyalty, rights, and privileges to the newly established emirates and chiefdoms.
He instructed that traditional titles associated with previous emirates be dropped, while new titles be recommended in line with statutory traditions.
Concluding the ceremony, Governor Fintiri formally presented the royal staff of office to Dr. Ali Danburam, officially recognizing him as Ptil Madagali and the paramount ruler of Madagali Local Government.
In his goodwill message, the former Governor of Adamawa State, HE Barrister Bala James Ngilari, said that, from ancient times, empires had come and gone, but the constant thing in life is change, which, he emphasised, remodels human beings.
He urged the citizenry to embrace the new changes Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri had brought to the state, especially the creation of the chiefdoms and emirates.
In his address, the Lamido Adamawa, Alh. Dr Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Musdafa, who is the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs and Emirs, represented by the Wali Adamawa, Dr Aminu Abdulkadri Mbamba, stated that the state is lucky to have Rt Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri as Governor, who has fought insecurity and transformed the state into a modern city.
He stated that the Governor has fulfilled all his campaign promises, including the creation of chiefdoms and emirates.
He praised the Ptil Madagali for his kindness and patience with the people, acknowledging his selfless service as a medical doctor to the late Lamido of Adamawa, Alh. Dr Aliyu Musdafa, and the state at large.
In his acceptance speech, the Ptil Madagali, HRM Dr Ali Danburam, born on 25 April 1959, into the family of Ptil Danburam, a medical doctor and seasoned administrator, said that he accepted the seat of Ptil Madagali with a sense of responsibility.
He acknowledged that true leadership is selfless service and pledged to be committed to serving the people.
He noted that, from ancient times, their ancestors had maintained the tradition of preserving their culture, stressing that the title of Ptil is not just a seat but a service to the people.
The oath of office and allegiance were administered to the Ptil Madagali, HRM Ali Danburam, by the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Hapsat Abdulrahaman.
The event was attended by dignitaries, royal fathers, government officials, and the people of Madagali, who celebrated the historic occasion.
Digital News
