Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, has said he will personally play a decisive role in choosing who succeeds him, stressing that while the race remains open, his preference will ultimately guide the final outcome.
Fintiri spoke on Monday in Yola when he received one of the governorship aspirants in his office.
According to him, consultations are still ongoing, but a final decision on his preferred candidate will be made soon.
“I also have my right to appoint and anoint my candidate. And I’m looking at all the variables, and by next week I will meet my candidate,” he said.
The governor added that the state political structure would be fully mobilised once a consensus candidate emerges.
“We will go all out, with God on our side, with the government structure all of us put on, with our sleeves rolled up, and we will vote for that candidate because it is the state that we want to salvage,” he said.
Fintiri noted that he is aware of the expectations and sentiments within the state, adding that he understands the direction of public opinion on succession.
“I know the pulse of the state. I know what they feel. I know what they are telling me. And I know who they want to succeed me,” he said.
However, he insisted that the process remains open and competitive for any qualified aspirant willing to contest.
“That does not mean we are foreclosing our doors. If you still feel you are man enough, bold enough, if you are good enough, well exposed, to go into the ring, you are welcome,” he added.
Fintiri also said considerations around loyalty and fairness would play a key role in his decision, while warning against actions he believes could hurt the people of the state.
“We will walk with the trajectory to ensure that as much as we are working for fairness, we are also working for loyalty,” he said.
“Anybody who puts pain on my people, I will fight them. At this moment, I will make my decision as governor to ensure that the best succeed me.”
He further stated that he is prepared to stand firmly by his choice, regardless of political pressure or personal risk.
“Not even at the threat of being persecuted. I’m fully prepared to put my life and my blood for this state to succeed,” he said.
