May 28, 2025 #Nigeria #Adamawa #ArnadoDebbo
In eastern Nigeria, the rural community of Arnado-Debbo has been exclusively ruled by women for 260

May 28, 2025 #Nigeria #Adamawa #ArnadoDebbo
In eastern Nigeria, the rural community of Arnado-Debbo has been exclusively ruled by women for 260 years—an unusual tradition born when male leaders mysteriously died. The queen, or Nyagangwu, resolves disputes and maintains peace while male warrior dancers perform victory rituals. Custom dictates rulers must be women over 50, a system upheld by male kingmakers who value female leadership. The paramount chief of Ganye oversees this arrangement, which has empowered women in community decision-making. Locals attribute the tradition’s longevity to its success in governance and social cohesion. Unlike neighbouring areas, Arnado-Debbo integrates matriarchal rule without conflict, demonstrating its cultural acceptance. This system highlights how unconventional leadership models can endure when they prove effective.

Al Jazeera’s Ahmed Idris reports from Adamawa state.