Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has strongly denied circulating rumors suggesting that the state government ordered the closure of schools due to security concerns. The governor expressed serious concern about the damaging effects of false information on society.
Government's Firm Stance Against Misinformation
Through his Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, Governor Fintiri described the claims as completely false and without foundation. The governor emphasized that schools throughout Adamawa State remain open and operational, with no directives issued for their closure.
"At no point did the government direct schools to close, and we have no intention to do so," Governor Fintiri declared firmly. He characterized the malicious rumor as the work of mischief-makers determined to damage the state government's reputation and disrupt public peace.
Legal Consequences for Rumormongers
The governor issued a stern warning that his administration would not hesitate to apply the full force of the law against individuals spreading false information to create chaos in the state. He urged the public to completely disregard such misinformation and encouraged schools to continue their academic activities without interruption.
Governor Fintiri highlighted the significant progress made in improving Adamawa's education sector and reaffirmed his administration's commitment to providing quality education to children. "We will not tolerate any attempt to undermine our efforts to reposition the education sector and improve the lives of our citizens," he emphasized.
Livestock Development Initiatives
In related developments, Governor Fintiri has inaugurated members of the National Council on Livestock Development and its Technical Committee. This move represents a significant step toward transforming Nigeria's livestock sector into a key driver of economic diversification, food security, rural development, and peacebuilding.
During the event in Yola, represented by Deputy Governor Professor Kaletapwa Farauta, the governor called on the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to support Adamawa's "Natural Resource Fund Grant Application." This proposal was submitted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in May 2024 and seeks funding for a program titled "Improving Livestock Productivity and Mitigation of Herders–Farmers Conflict through Effective Utilisation of Grazing Reserves."
Farauta also requested federal intervention to support a Model Demonstration Pilot Ranch under the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), specifically focusing on its pillar concerning economic investment in ranching, fodder production, and value chains.
The deputy governor outlined ongoing state efforts to revitalize the livestock sector, including:
- Rehabilitation and demarcation of 69 grazing reserves (32 gazetted and 37 ungazetted)
- Development of stock routes
- Dam desilting operations
- Provision of watering points for livestock
The government has established a state office for the NLTP to support pasture development at the Gongoshi Grazing Reserve, demonstrating its comprehensive approach to agricultural development.
Governor Fintiri concluded by appealing to Adamawa residents and the general public to support his administration's efforts to build a better state, assuring that the government will continue working tirelessly to establish Adamawa as a hub of educational excellence.
