Fufore Emirate Case: Court Adjourns Hearing to April 3 as Defense Seeks More Time

Fufore Emirate Case: Court Adjourns Hearing to April 3 as Defense Seeks More Time

A High Court in Adamawa State, under the leadership of Justice Musa Usman, has postponed the hearing on the contentious Fufore Emirate case to April 3, 2025. The adjournment comes after the defense counsel requested additional time to respond to a cross affidavit filed by the Adamawa State Government.

During the court session, M.M. Nuruddeen (SAN), lead counsel for the plaintiffs, requested an extension to properly address the new filing submitted by the state through the Attorney General.

“The state was meant to respond within seven days, but the reply came late. They applied for an extension under court rules, which we agreed to. However, their motion included a new argument that we need to review before responding. The court has now set April 3 for us to file our reply and take the main motion,” Nuruddeen explained.

State Government’s Argument

Speaking after the hearing, Adamawa State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Barrister Afraimo Jingi, stated that the state had earlier requested the court to dismiss the case, arguing that it was not properly constituted.

“Initially, we sought to have the case struck out. However, the plaintiffs responded with an application to refer the issues to the Court of Appeal. We disagreed with this approach and instead filed a counter affidavit. Since we submitted it late, we had to apply for leave to file out of time, which was granted today,” he explained.

Background of the Dispute

The lawsuit challenging the creation of Fufore Emirate was filed by three prominent figures within the Adamawa Emirate:

• Musa Halilu Ahmed (Dujima Adamawa)
• Alhaji Mustapha Dahiru Mustapha (Yeriman Adamawa)
• Alhaji Mustapha Ahmad (Sarki Noma Adamawa)

They argue that the creation of the new emirate threatens the historical, cultural, and traditional heritage of the Adamawa Emirate.

The Adamawa State Government, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Attorney General Barrister Afraimo Jingi, and the newly appointed Emir of Fufore, Muhammad Sani Ribadu, have been listed as defendants in the suit.

Mixed Reactions from Stakeholders

The establishment of Fufore Emirate has sparked intense debate, with some stakeholders opposing the move, claiming it distorts historical traditions. However, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has defended the decision, stating that it reflects the aspirations of the people and supports self-determination.

As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on the April 3 court date, where both sides will present their arguments.