Governor’s aide flays Amaechi over posture at emir’s palace

A photo of Amaechi sitting in the palace

Controversy has trailed a recent campaign visit by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to Bauchi State, with the party’s vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, being criticised over his posture during a courtesy call at the Emir of Bauchi’s palace.

Mr Amaechi accompanied the party’s presidential flagbearer, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and other senior ADC chieftains to the palace as part of the party’s ongoing nationwide campaign for the January 2027 general elections.

However, images and video clips circulating on social media from the visit sparked debate among observers and political commentators. Some described Mr Amaechi’s posture before the traditional ruler as disrespectful to the revered stool and Northern Nigerian cultural norms.

Garba Muhammad, a new media aide to Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State posted on Facebook that Mr Amaechi’s sitting pattern disrespected the traditional institution.

“Look at the way the ADC vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, sat today at the Bauchi palace when they went for their campaign. There is absolutely no respect or honour here,” Mr Muhammad wrote, echoing sentiments from others who argued that political leaders seeking the support of traditional institutions must demonstrate decorum.

Traditional palaces in Northern Nigeria are widely regarded as custodians of culture and authority, where strict protocols of deference—including sitting posture and mode of greeting—are closely observed by visiting dignitaries.

Mr Muhammad and several other commentators argued that Mr Amaechi’s demeanor fell short of the standard expected of a high-ranking national figure courting grassroots and traditional backing.

While the ADC has yet to respond to the viral commentary, party loyalists online dismissed the criticism as a deliberate distraction by political opponents, insisting that the visitors were warmly received by the palace and focused on key national issues such as security, economic recovery, and infrastructure.

The ADC campaign team led by Atiku arrived in Bauchi State on Friday ahead of the party’s presidential campaign rally scheduled for Saturday.

Atiku arrived at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi, with members of his entourage.

The ADC presidential candidate is expected to address party supporters and residents of the state at Saturday’s rally.