Adamawa Assembly Passes Bill on Gratuity, Death Benefits for Emirs, Chiefs

Adamawa Assembly Passes Bill on Gratuity, Death Benefits for Emirs, Chiefs

The Adamawa State House of Assembly has passed a bill to provide gratuity and death benefits for Emirs and Chiefs in the state, a move aimed at strengthening the welfare and institutional recognition of traditional rulers.

The bill, which seeks to amend the Adamawa State Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) (Amendment) Law, 2024, was passed during Monday’s plenary session presided over by Speaker Mr. Bathiya Wesley. It establishes a legal framework for the payment of gratuity and death benefits to traditional rulers for the first time under the 2024 law.

Plenary session Adamawa state House of Assembly

The passage followed the consideration and adoption of a report presented by the House Standing Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, chaired by Hon. Kefas Calvin (Toungo Constituency).

Presenting the report, Hon. Calvin commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for sponsoring the bill, describing the proposed amendment as a significant step towards improving the welfare of traditional rulers. He noted that the amendment would establish the necessary legal framework for the payment of gratuity and death benefits to Emirs and Chiefs.

Contributing to the debate, Deputy Speaker Hon. Muhammed Buba Jidjiwa (Jada Mbula) commended the committee for its work and urged members to adopt the report. He emphasized that traditional institutions remain important custodians of the culture, norms, and values of the people, and that the amendment would further strengthen the welfare and dignity of traditional rulers.

The Majority Leader of the Assembly, Hon. Kate Raymond Mamuno (Demsa), moved the motion for the passage of the bill, which was seconded by Hon. Musa Mahmud Kallamu (Mayo Belwa). The bill was subsequently passed by a voice vote.

The Speaker has directed the Clerk of the House to prepare a clean copy of the bill and transmit it to Governor Fintiri for his assent. Once signed into law, the amendment will formally entitle traditional rulers in Adamawa State to gratuity and death benefits.