By Uzair Adam
Former Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has said the final decision on the ongoing Kano emirship dispute rests with the Supreme Court, stressing that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf will be bound to implement the court’s verdict in line with the rule of law.
Ganduje stated this while reacting to reports alleging that he had endorsed Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Chiefs.
In a statement issued by his former Commissioner of Information and current Chief of Staff, Muhammad Garba, the ex-governor described the reports as a misinterpretation of his remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of the Deputy Governor.
He explained that his reference to Sanusi by his traditional title at the event was purely out of respect and adherence to protocol, not an endorsement.
“It is important to clarify that what happened was simply an expression of respect in a public gathering. It should not be misconstrued as an endorsement,” Ganduje said.
He noted that the emirship tussle remains before the court, warning that comments on the matter must be made cautiously to avoid contempt.
Ganduje recalled that the Court of Appeal had earlier directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the final determination of the case by the Supreme Court.
He explained that the current legal position recognises Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano and Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 14th Emir, pending the apex court’s ruling.
The former governor added that he lacks the constitutional authority to endorse or reject any claimant, noting that the responsibility lies solely with the judiciary and, subsequently, the state government.
He further criticised sections of the media for amplifying the issue, saying a routine remark was taken out of context.
“The interpretation being given to the remark is clearly exaggerated,” he said, urging all parties to remain calm and await the Supreme Court judgment expected next year.
