Ayuba Umar Warns Against Political Involvement of Traditional Rulers in Nasarawa State

Political commentator and prince of the Nunku Chiefdom, Ayuba Umar, has cautioned against the active participation of traditional rulers in partisan politics, describing it as a threat to the neutrality and integrity of Nigeria’s traditional institutions.

In a strongly worded statement, Ayuba stressed his deep respect for traditional rulers, citing his royal heritage — his grandfather, His Royal Majesty Sarkin Nunku Abdullahi Zombi, ruled the chiefdom twice between 1881–1919 and 1925–1943. He hailed traditional leaders as custodians of culture and moral compasses for governance, but insisted they should remain apolitical.

Ayuba’s remarks come in response to a reported appeal by Senator Abdullahi Adamu to the Emir of Lafia and other traditional leaders to support zoning the next Nasarawa governorship to the Nasarawa West Senatorial District in 2027.

“No traditional ruler has the constitutional authority to determine the process by which the next governor will be selected, except as provided in the 1999 Constitution,” Ayuba stated, questioning whether such actions align traditional rulers with a particular political party, especially the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He warned that allowing royal fathers to influence candidate selection could damage their credibility and alienate them from citizens who expect them to be neutral arbiters and guardians of heritage.

Ayuba further criticised the broader political culture, accusing some leaders of using public office for personal enrichment at the expense of citizens, leading to poverty, youth unemployment, and a decline in education. He urged traditional leaders to resist manipulation by transient politicians and to instead encourage peaceful, idea-driven political discourse.

The prince vowed to continue exercising his democratic rights to vote and run for public office without interference, calling on Nasarawa citizens to condemn any moves that erode the apolitical stance of traditional institutions.

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