Aminu Ado Bayero and Sanusi Lamido Sanusi
The Kano emirship dispute has escalated, with both Aminu Ado Bayero and Lamido Sanusi asserting their claims to the position from different palaces. Sanusi, reinstated by the state government, is operating from the main Kano Emir’s Palace, while the deposed Bayero is holding court at the mini palace in Nassarawa GRA.
Sanusi, who was formally reinstated on Friday, has been receiving district heads and supporters at the main palace. He made a ceremonial entrance on horseback, greeted by gun salutes from palace guards. The main palace has seen an influx of supporters, many of whom are linked to the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
Meanwhile, Bayero, who returned to Kano on Saturday morning, has also been receiving homage from his supporters and some district heads opposed to his deposition. Speaking from the mini palace, Bayero called for calm and adherence to the law. “Nobody is above the law,” he said. “We will accept whatever the law says. I appreciate all the people who have shown concern. We will keep on praying for peace in Kano State.”
The state government’s actions have been met with legal challenges. Security agencies have urged compliance with a court order halting the deposition of Bayero and his colleagues from the dissolved Bichi, Karaye, Rano, and Gaya emirates. However, the state government questioned the legitimacy of the order, claiming the judge was out of the country when it was issued.
Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam accused former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, now the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), of instigating the crisis by using the office of the National Security Adviser to facilitate Bayero’s return. “It is unfortunate that Ganduje is using the National Security Adviser to create tension in the state,” Abdulsalam stated. He emphasized that the appointment and dethronement of emirs are the prerogatives of the state government.
The National Security Adviser’s office denied any involvement, urging politicians to avoid making inflammatory statements. Ganduje’s spokesperson, Edwin Olofu, also denied any connection to the events, stating that Ganduje was attending an APC meeting in Nasarawa State.
The crisis has drawn significant attention due to Kano’s influential role in Nigeria. As the situation unfolds, both Sanusi and Bayero are urging their supporters to remain peaceful and respect the legal process.