The Adamawa State House of Assembly has taken a significant step towards strengthening the welfare and institutional recognition of traditional rulers with the passage of a bill providing for gratuity and death benefits for Emirs and Chiefs across the state.
The legislation, passed during Monday’s plenary, seeks to amend the Adamawa State Chiefs (Appointment and Deposition) (Amendment) Law, 2024, to formally provide for gratuity and death benefits for members of the state’s traditional institution.
The passage followed the consideration and adoption of a report presented by the House Standing Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, chaired by Kefas Calvin, representing Toungo Constituency.
The proposed amendment is expected to establish a legal framework for benefits that would be payable to eligible traditional rulers, including provisions relating to their welfare and families in the event of death.
Presenting the committee’s report, Calvin commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for sponsoring the bill, describing the initiative as an important intervention aimed at improving the welfare and status of traditional rulers in Adamawa.
According to him, amending the existing law would help address the welfare needs of Emirs and Chiefs while recognising their enduring contributions to the preservation of the state’s traditional institutions.
The lawmaker said traditional rulers remain important custodians of the cultural heritage and values of their respective communities, making their welfare an issue worthy of legislative attention.
Also contributing during the consideration of the report, the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, Muhammed Buba Jidjiwa, representing Jada Mbula Constituency, commended the committee for its work and urged lawmakers to support the amendment.
Jidjiwa emphasised the importance of traditional institutions in society, noting that they embody the culture, norms and values of the people.
He said providing appropriate welfare and post-service benefits for traditional rulers would further demonstrate recognition of the responsibilities they shoulder in their communities.
The Deputy Speaker also commended Governor Fintiri for initiating the amendment, urging his colleagues to adopt the committee’s recommendations in the interest of traditional rulers and their families.
The Majority Leader of the Assembly, Hon. Kate Raymond Mamuno, representing Demsa Constituency, subsequently moved the motion for the passage of the bill.
The motion was seconded by Musa Mahmud Kallamu, representing Mayo-Belwa Constituency.
Following the consideration of the report and the necessary legislative procedures, the House passed the bill.
The development marks a notable legislative intervention in the welfare of traditional rulers in Adamawa State, placing gratuity and death benefits within the framework of the law governing the state’s traditional institution.