The past 48 hours have been marked by intense drama over the emirship of Kano between Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II and Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero. Following Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s signing of the Kano State Emirates Council (Amendment Number 2) Bill 2024 on Thursday, which reinstated Sanusi, tension has soared in Kano.
Sources reveal that the state government had planned for Sanusi’s move to the Gidan Rumfa Palace on Saturday. However, upon learning of Bayero’s arrival early Saturday, the process was expedited, and Sanusi was escorted to the palace before dawn. This led Bayero to relocate to the mini palace in Nassarawa upon his arrival in Kano.
Sanusi arrived at Gidan Rumfa Palace accompanied by the governor, deputy governor, and other officials around 1:00 AM. Meanwhile, Bayero, who had visited the Awujale of Ijebuland before his dethronement, was received in Kano by a crowd and moved to the Nassarawa palace under heavy security, suggesting federal backing.
Reports indicate that a high-ranking federal official may have influenced a court injunction by Justice A.M. Liman of the Federal High Court in Kano, halting the implementation of the new law reinstating Sanusi. Both Sanusi and Bayero received homage from their supporters in separate locations, intensifying the rivalry.
NSA Denies Involvement in Emir’s Flight
Deputy Governor Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo alleged that National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu arranged two jets to fly Bayero into Kano. This claim was denied by NSA spokesperson Zakari Mijinyawa, who urged political actors to avoid misinformation. Ribadu’s lawyer demanded a retraction of the accusation from the deputy governor.
Police to Enforce Court Order Against Sanusi’s Reinstatement
Kano Commissioner of Police Usaini Mohammed Gumel, defying the governor’s order to arrest Bayero, stated that the police would uphold the court order preventing Sanusi’s reinstatement. Governor Yusuf accused Bayero of causing unrest and demanded his arrest for disturbing the peace. However, Gumel emphasized the police’s commitment to enforcing the court’s decision and maintaining order.
In a meeting with Bayero, the police and security chiefs reiterated their adherence to the court order. Bayero called for justice and urged the public to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
Sanusi’s Response
Security chiefs later met Sanusi at Gidan Rumfa Palace, informing him about the court’s decision. Sanusi, insisting he had not seen the court order, described his reinstatement as justice for past injustices. In an interview, he asserted that his return corrected wrongs against Kano’s people and traditions.
Challenges to the New Law
Aminu Babba Danagundi, a kingmaker reinstated by Bayero, held a press conference explaining his legal challenge against the new law, claiming procedural breaches in its passage. He stated that other deposed emirs would join his suit.
Reactions
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the federal government’s deployment of security forces in Kano, warning against destabilizing the state. The Kano Ulama Council and the local Nigerian Bar Association branch echoed concerns, urging the federal government to allow a peaceful resolution and emphasizing that the army lacks authority to enforce court orders.
