March 9, 2020: Ganduje Dethrones Sanusi II as Kano Emir
March 9 marks a significant date in Kano’s history—a day that saw the dramatic dethronement of the 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, exactly five years ago. What began as political tension between the Emir and the Kano State Government under then-Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje culminated in his removal from the throne.
However, in a surprising twist of history, Sanusi II has now been reinstated as the 16th Emir of Kano, reaffirming his place as a central figure in the emirate’s leadership.
On March 9, 2020, Kano was thrown into political and traditional upheaval when the state government announced Sanusi’s removal. The Secretary to the State Government, Usman Alhaji, cited insubordination, refusal to attend official meetings, and breaches of the Kano Emirate Law as reasons for the Emir’s ouster.
According to the state government, the decision was meant to preserve the sanctity, culture, tradition, religion, and prestige of the Kano Emirate.
Sanusi’s dethronement was preceded by intense political maneuvering. The Kano State House of Assembly became a battleground, with lawmakers engaging in heated debates—some opposing and others supporting the move. Eventually, the government took decisive action, bringing an abrupt end to Sanusi’s six-year reign.
A former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi II was crowned Emir on June 8, 2014, following the death of his predecessor, Ado Bayero. His reign was marked by progressive ideals, advocacy for reforms, and open criticism of government policies, particularly those of the Ganduje administration. These confrontations ultimately led to his forced exit.
Following his removal, the government swiftly restructured the Kano Emirate by creating four additional emirates—Bichi, Karaye, Gaya, and Rano—effectively reducing the influence of the Kano Emir.
Sanusi’s successor, Aminu Ado Bayero, took the throne as the 15th Emir, ushering in a new era for Kano’s traditional leadership.
Fast forward to 2024, a political shift in Kano reversed the events of 2020. With the election of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the new administration sought to undo Ganduje’s restructuring of the emirate system.
On May 23, 2024, the Kano State House of Assembly repealed the controversial 2019 law that had divided the emirate into five. This decision effectively dissolved the newly created emirates and restored the historical structure of the Kano Emirate Council.
Governor Yusuf, wielding the powers granted to him under the Kano Emirate Council Law of 1984 and the newly passed 2024 amendment, reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano.
In a grand ceremony at the Government House, he handed over Sanusi’s letter of reappointment, describing the decision as one based on competence, credibility, and popularity.
The governor urged the reinstated Emir to use his position to unite the people of Kano, particularly in fostering harmony among Islamic sects.
The post March 9, 2020: Ganduje Dethrones Sanusi II as Kano Emir appeared first on Kano Times.
