In a historic turn of events, Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has officially assented to a bill passed by the state assembly, effectively reversing the creation of new emirates initiated by the previous administration under Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
The momentous decision was made following a closed-door meeting between Governor Yusuf, members of the state assembly, and key traditional leaders, believed to be kingmakers, at the Government House in Kano. With the stroke of a pen, Governor Yusuf not only endorsed the bill but also reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 14th Emir of Kano, who was previously deposed in March 2020.
The proclamation also signals the removal of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, who had succeeded Sanusi.
Emir Ado Bayero’s absence from Kano, following a recent visit to the Awujale of Ijebuland, adds intrigue to the unfolding drama surrounding traditional leadership in the state.
The reinstatement of Sanusi II comes amidst a tumultuous history between the former emir and the Ganduje administration.
Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was appointed as the 14th Emir of Kano in June 2014. However, his tenure was marked by tensions with the Ganduje administration, stemming from his outspoken nature and criticisms of government policies.
Sanusi’s deposition in March 2020 followed the promulgation of the Kano State Emirs (Appointment and Deposition) Law in 2019, which facilitated the creation of four additional emirates – Rano, Karaye, Gaya, and Bichi. While the state government cited reasons of safeguarding tradition and institutional sanctity, Sanusi’s supporters viewed his removal as retaliation for his opposition to Ganduje’s re-election in 2019.
The recent move by the Kano State House of Assembly to amend the contentious law reflects ongoing efforts to address the grievances stemming from the 2019 amendment.
Majority Leader Hussien Dala emphasized the importance of ensuring fairness and justice in governing traditional institutions, a sentiment echoed by Speaker Jibril Isma’il Falgore.
With the political landscape in Kano now under New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), the stage is set for potential recalibrations in traditional and political dynamics.
NNPP’s presidential candidate for 2023, Kwankwaso, has pledged to revisit the issue of Sanusi’s removal, underscoring the significance of the ongoing power struggle in the state.