24/07/2026
RE: PEACEFUL NOTICE FROM THE PALACE OF THE EMIR OF PATASKUM
The attention of the concerned loyal subjects of Fika Emirate has been drawn to the so-called “Peaceful Notice” issued by the Palace of the Emir of Pataskum, in which it demands that the Emir of Fika refrain from using or being addressed with the title “Emir of Potiskum” in any official or public capacity.
While we respect the right of every traditional institution to protect its dignity, we find this notice not only premature and poorly conceived but a profound embarrassment to the entire traditional institution in Yobe State and beyond. It is particularly regrettable that some would exhibit such impatience over what was clearly a mere protocol glitch emanating from the highest office in the land. Such overreaction does little credit to the revered stools we all occupy and we view this overreaction as a disrespect to the Office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Historical and Factual Clarification
Let it be stated clearly for the records: The Emir of Fika has never surrendered his ancient and historical throne for a lesser one. The Fika Emirate remains one of the oldest and most respected traditional institutions in the region, with a rich history that predates many contemporary arrangements.
We must ask: When did an “Emir of Potiskum” suddenly emerge to warrant this aggressive “peaceful notice” that carries the undertone of violent intent? The last time we checked, what exists is the Emir of Pataskum with headquarters at Yarimaram, not Potiskum. It is therefore curious that the Emir of Pataskum would issue a restraint notice to the Chairman of the Yobe State Council of Chiefs on the use of his official headquarters name as a name tag in a ceremony that is organized by the highest office in the land.
Potiskum is, and remains, the official headquarters of the Fika Emirate. This is not a matter of opinion but of historical and administrative fact. The headquarters of the Fika Emirate was officially relocated to Potiskum by the colonial authority. This is consistent with well-known administrative relocations in Nigerian history: the headquarters of Northern Nigeria was moved from Zungeru to Kaduna, and the Federal Capital of Nigeria from Lagos to Abuja. These were deliberate acts of governance, not personal or tribal conquests.
As it is today, Potiskum is not the handiwork of any single historical creation or one group’s exclusive claim. It is the product of the collective effort of all tribes that have resided there for ages, under the leadership and hospitality of the ancient Fika Emirate.
On Titles and Precedent
We note with clarity that the Emirs of Katagum and Bade have never laid claim to being addressed as Emir of Azare or Emir of Gashua respectively. Similarly, the Emir of Fika has no intention of encroaching on any other stool. The question therefore remains: why this selective fixation on the Fika Emirate’s rightful identification with its headquarters though unintentionally?
A Call Against Tribalism in a Modern Age
In this era of a new global order where the world is rapidly becoming borderless through technology, commerce, and shared humanity, it is disheartening that some remain stuck in naked tribalism, claiming territories and titles where they contributed little or nothing to their establishment and development.
The Fika Emirate has always promoted peaceful coexistence and unity among all residents of Potiskum and its environs. We urge all parties to rise above petty title squabbles and focus on the greater good of our people.
The ancient stool of Fika stands tall on its historical foundation and will continue to be addressed appropriately in accordance with established traditions and administrative realities. As concerned and law-abiding subjects of the Emir of Fika, we remain committed to the peace, progress, and harmonious development of the state and its traditional institutions. We call on all well-meaning stakeholders, government, and the general public to disregard any attempt to create unnecessary tension or confusion.
