Yungur Chiefdom: Our Heritage, Our Future
By Calvin Anadio Lawan.
Governor Fintiri’s recent signing of the Chieftaincy Bill, which restored chiefdoms to 7 ethnic nationalities in Adamawa State, is a historic moment for our people.
This legislation is especially significant to us because our history is unique. Unlike others, history has it that our forefathers were never conquered by any tribe or jihadists, nor were they subservient to any external force.
The recognition of our chiefdom reflects our strength, resilience, and cultural identity.
However, I understand the disappointment many of us feel about the staff of office designated for our Paramount Ruler and Chief Priest, a 3rd-class status instead of the 1st-class recognition we had hoped for.
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This sentiment is valid, as many had high expectations. Yet, I urge every Yungur son and daughter to approach this development with the mindset of seeing the “cup half full” instead of “half empty.”
Let us reflect on the broader context: Adamawa State is home to over 100 ethnic nationalities, most of whom have no chiefdoms of their own. Being among the 7 chosen for this recognition is a monumental achievement.
It is a moment to commend our political, religious, and traditional leaders who worked tirelessly to make this happen.
I also understand concerns about choosing Dumne as the headquarters of the Yungur Chiefdom instead of Ditera, which has historically been the seat of our traditional leadership for centuries. Initially, I shared these reservations.
However, after consulting with some of our elders and studying examples from other chiefdoms, I have come to see this as an opportunity rather than a problem.
Take the Bachama Kingdom where I grew up as an example. The Hama Bachama resides in Numan, but Lamurde remains the traditional headquarters where all rituals and ceremonies for the installation and burial of their leaders take place.
This balance has not diminished their culture or authority, instead, it has strengthened their legacy.
We can achieve the same balance. While Dumne may serve as the administrative center, we must ensure that all traditional processes, including the installation and burial of the Gubo Bnna, adhere strictly to our cultural rituals.
Our history and traditions remain intact as long as we stay committed to preserving them.
Let’s not forget that a chiefdom’s status can also be upgraded over time. A 3rd-class designation today does not define our future.
What we must focus on now is ensuring the smooth installation of our Paramount Ruler and Chief Priest. By offering unwavering support and cooperation to our leadership, we can build a solid foundation for future upgrades.
Chiefdoms, when effectively managed, have been used as tools for both cultural preservation and economic development. For example:
I did my NYSC at Ogoja and I am conversant with the Obudu Chiefdom in Cross River which has used its recognition to develop cultural tourism, attracting visitors to their annual festivals and boosting local businesses.
The Tiv Traditional Council in Benue State has become a focal point for agricultural innovation, using its influence to bring investments and development projects to the region.
We can do the same in Yungur land. With strategic planning and unity, our chiefdom can become a hub for cultural and economic progress, benefiting all who reside within our territory.
This is our moment. Let us rise above our differences and focus on what truly matters: building a better Yungur Kingdom for ourselves and generations to come. Our strength has always been our unity and resilience. Let us channel this strength into making our chiefdom a model of excellence, where tradition and progress coexist harmoniously.
The world is watching. Let us show that the Yungur people are not only custodians of a rich history but also architects of a prosperous future.
Kadlosa!
Lawan writes from Yola.
