The Kano State House of Assembly has initiated the process to amend the Kano State Emirs (Appointment and Deposition) Law, responding to calls for the reinstatement of the deposed 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi.
This development came after Majority Leader Hussein Dala, representing Dala constituency, introduced the motion during Tuesday’s plenary session.
The law, first amended in 2019 during a conflict between former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Emir Sanusi, had divided the Kano emirate into five separate entities, creating the Rano, Karaye, Gaya, and Bichi Emirates and appointing First Class Emirs for each. This division ultimately led to the deposition of Emir Sanusi.
With the electoral victory of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who advocated for the restoration of the old Kano Emirate system during his campaign, there has been a renewed push for Sanusi’s reinstatement.
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), which now governs Kano, hinted at a review of the emirate divisions shortly before Yusuf assumed office.
“We campaigned and we are well-known in Nigeria, especially in Kano. What we showed the people is by God’s grace all the good projects we started when we were in government. This governor (Abba Kabir Yusuf) and his team will pick up from where we left off,” Kwankwaso stated.
He emphasized that the new administration would evaluate and address the changes made by the previous government, including the creation of the new emirates and the deposition of Emir Sanusi.
Kwankwaso continued, “We as elders in the movement will continue to advise them to do things that are proper. We tried not to talk about whether the Emir would be removed or not, but now you see, the opportunity is there. Those who God made leaders will now decide on the next step and decision to take. They will review it and determine what is the right thing to be done.”
He also acknowledged the complexities inherited by the new administration, stating, “When a leader comes into power whether in a country, state, or local government area, he inherits things that are good and things that are difficult and challenging. We are confident God will give the governor (Abba Kabir Yusuf) the wisdom to come and resolve the challenges planted in Kano state so that everyone will live peacefully in Kano state.”
The Assembly’s move to amend the law is seen as a significant step towards addressing the contentious issues surrounding the Kano emirates and could potentially lead to the reinstatement of Emir Sanusi.