Yola, Nigeria –The Huba people in Adamawa State are set to witness a historic moment on Friday, February 14, 2025, as their newly appointed traditional ruler, Töl Alheri Bulus Nyako, will be officially presented with the Staff of Office by the Governor of Adamawa State, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, CON.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Yola, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong highlighted the significance of the event, marking the culmination of a 120-year struggle for the recognition of the Huba Chiefdom.
“The Huba people, one of the major ethnic groups in Adamawa State, trace their origins to a migration route from the Middle East through Egypt, Sudan, Borno, and Mandara Hill before settling in their present location. Oral history suggests that their migration occurred in two phases, with the first settlers establishing communities in the mountains for strategic defense.
“By the 14th century, the Huba governance system evolved when FurkudƏl, a hunter from the Babbir royal lineage, established a central authority, uniting the clan-based communities. Over time, the leadership structure expanded into two ruling dynasties—Dawi and Gaya—which ruled the kingdom in rotation until colonial interference disrupted the system.
“During British colonial rule, the Huba Chiefdom faced systemic downgrading, reducing its traditional leadership to an ungraded district head under the Adamawa Emirate. Despite multiple approvals for the Chiefdom’s restoration—most notably in 1906, 1986, and 1988—none were implemented, and attempts to revive the Huba monarchy were met with intimidation and resistance.
“However, a major breakthrough came in December 2024, when Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri created the Huba Chiefdom alongside six other Emirates and Chiefdoms across Adamawa State. This decision brought an end to a long-standing struggle for independence and self-determination.
“In January 2025, Governor Fintiri formally approved the appointment of Töl Alheri Bulus Nyako as the new ruler of the Huba people. Unlike previous approvals that were never implemented, this time, legal frameworks, administrative structures, and governance procedures were put in place to ensure the sustainability of the Chiefdom.
“As part of this historic recognition, the government has also created additional districts within the Huba Chiefdom, bringing the total number to fourteen, including Hong, Shangui, Pella, Uding, Kulinyi, Hyema, Gaya, Hildi, Mugwahi, Mayo Lope/Gashala, Uba, Mufa, Dugwaba, and Yadul,” Dr Hong stated.
The coronation of Töl Alheri Bulus Nyako on Friday will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Huba people, restoring their traditional institution and affirming their place in Adamawa’s cultural and political landscape.
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