By Prof. Sanni Illesanmi
Once known as the “Land of Beauty,” Adamawa State is fast becoming a political war zone, marred by vindictive power plays and an erosion of democratic norms. What began as a seemingly harmless political spat between former allies—Sadiq Wali, a powerful political actor, and a fiery commentator known as Calculate—has spiraled into a disturbing tale of authoritarian tactics, human rights violations, and a justice system that appears compromised.
The public feud has exposed the raw underbelly of Adamawa’s political ecosystem. Far from civil debate and constructive criticism, the dispute has descended into what critics call “jungle justice”—a scenario where raw power trumps the rule of law and where perceived enemies are silenced not through persuasion, but persecution.
Arrest During a Sacred Season
The arrest of Calculate during the sacred Sallah period is emblematic of the brazen nature of this political vendetta. Many observers saw it not as a legitimate law enforcement action, but as a calculated move intended to embarrass and intimidate. In a state where religious observance and communal harmony are highly valued, detaining a critic during a holy period struck many as both provocative and petty.
“This was not just about law and order,” said one civil society activist in Yola. “This was about ego—about wounded pride and a desire to make someone pay.”
The charges against Calculate—criminal defamation—would normally qualify for bail. Yet he was not only denied bail at the initial hearing, but when it was later considered, the conditions were so restrictive they bordered on the absurd. Magistrate Musa Alhaji, who presided over the case, ruled that only a first-class traditional ruler, specifically the Gangwari Ganye, could serve as a guarantor.
“It’s a classic tactic,” said a local lawyer who requested anonymity. “Set the bail conditions so high that the accused effectively remains in jail indefinitely. It’s legal imprisonment by other means.”
A Political System on Trial
This case has brought into sharp focus the growing fears about the politicization of law enforcement and the judiciary in Adamawa. Critics argue that state resources are increasingly being used to settle personal and political scores—an ominous sign for any democracy.
The role of the Department of State Services (DSS) adds a layer of intrigue. According to sources close to Calculate, efforts were made to involve the secret police in his arrest—a move reportedly resisted by the agency. Instead, a dramatic roadside arrest was staged, with Calculate’s vehicle blocked on the way to the airport and the man himself dragged into custody without a warrant.
The brazenness of the arrest triggered public outrage, particularly on social media, where images and eyewitness accounts spread rapidly.
“This is the stuff of banana republics,” wrote one Twitter user. “Not a democracy.”
The Governor’s Silence
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, who occupies the highest office in the state, has thus far remained largely silent on the matter. According to Calculate, the governor privately reached out via an aide to deny any involvement in the demolition threats on his home or in the arrest. While this gesture offered some relief, many believe it falls short of what is needed.
“If the governor truly had no hand in it, why hasn’t the commissioner for environment, Bala Kalu, been disciplined?” asked Prof. Illesanmi, a political analyst based in Lagos. “You don’t restore confidence in the system with whispers and denials. You do it with accountability.”
Indeed, Bala Kalu has yet to face any form of public sanction for allegedly initiating the unlawful demolition threats—another key grievance that sparked the initial confrontation.
A Turning Point?
Observers say this saga may mark a dangerous turning point for Adamawa. What began as a personal dispute between two political figures has exposed the ease with which political machinery can be weaponized against dissenters.
“This episode reflects a steady decline in democratic values,” said Hauwa Bello, a human rights advocate. “When powerful people can bend institutions to serve their vendettas, everyone is at risk.”
And yet, amid the injustice, some see hope in the resilience of public opinion. The pushback from citizens, legal professionals, and even factions within the government, suggests that Adamawa’s democratic instincts are not entirely lost.
In the end, as history often reminds us, the arc of justice may be long, but it does bend. For now, however, the people of Adamawa watch and wait, hoping the rule of law can still prevail over the rule of fear.
Prof. Sanni Illesanmi is a public affairs analyst and political commentator based in Lagos.
