Kano Emirate Council dispute

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

A coalition of concerned citizens has issued a strong call to the Nigeria Police Force for an urgent investigation into what they describe as “premeditated acts of provocation and incitement” targeting the Kano Emirate.

The group, led by Secretary General Rabiu Matazu, alleges that recent unrest surrounding the annual Durbar celebrations was orchestrated by associates of the deposed Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero. According to the statement, supporters of the former Emir had publicly mobilised thugs via social media to gather at his Mandawari residence, which lies directly along the route of Emir Sanusi’s durbar procession.

The release also describes a separate incident involving Aminu Ado Bayero’s convoy, which reportedly passed in front of Gidan Rumfa — the official residence of the Emir — during a condolence visit. Eyewitnesses claim the convoy tore down official banners and damaged parts of the palace wall, while chanting threats against Emir Sanusi.

“This is not [a] mere coincidence,” the statement read. “These are coordinated efforts to provoke confrontation and destabilise the Emirate.”

In stark contrast, the statement commended Emir Sanusi II for what it described as a peaceful and respectful gesture during the Nasarawa Eid durbar, deliberately avoiding the Nasarawa Palace where Bayero is said to be “squatting.”

The group is demanding that the police investigate all aspects of the incidents, including social media incitement, acts of vandalism, and the role of any influential individuals behind the provocations. They emphasise that accountability should not be selective.

“Kano has suffered enough,” the statement concluded. “The people deserve peace, stability, and a police force that enforces the law without fear or favour.”

By Kamal Alkasim

As a passionate observer of our culture and heritage, I am writing this letter from the heart of Kano metropolis. It was driven not by personal interest, but by love for our land, its history, and the legacy entrusted to its leaders.

Your Highness, it is said that to whom much is given, much is expected. As the custodian of a rich cultural heritage, the expectations placed on your shoulders are immense. You come from a distinguished royal lineage: your late uncle, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi I, was a towering figure whose leadership left a deep mark across Northern Nigeria. More recently, your nephew, Muhammadu Sanusi II, carried the same torch, boldly defending the dignity and legacy of the Kano Emirate, even after facing unjust dethronement in 2020.

The legacy of your father, the late Emir Ado Bayero, speaks for itself. He reigned with wisdom and dignity for over five decades. History recalls how former Governor Abubakar Rimi once attempted to depose him, but fate and divine will had other plans. That chapter ended in tragedy, and Rimi never held office again. Your father, on the other hand, continued to serve and left behind an enduring legacy.

Your Highness, the Kano Emirate has stood for over a thousand years as a beacon of leadership, culture, and Islamic scholarship. It deserves a leader who will defend its dignity with integrity, wisdom, and a sense of responsibility that transcends personal or political interests.

Sadly, many believe that under your leadership, the kingdom has faltered. There are concerns that you have allowed yourself to be used as a tool by those with no regard for the unity and peace of Kano. These are strong words, but they come from a place of deep concern and affection for our home.

Leadership is not about holding a title; it is about rising to the moment and making tough but principled decisions in the interest of the people. Leadership is not about clinging to a throne while the city suffers unrest and division. Peace, justice, and unity must always come first.

Your name will forever be in the history books as one of the Emirs of Kano. That, in itself, is no small achievement—one that countless princes before you have dreamed of. But how your name is remembered depends on what you do with the responsibility now entrusted to you.

Let Kano rise again—not as a battlefield for political power plays, but as the most peaceful, united, and respected state in Nigeria and beyond. Let the Emirate return to being a symbol of honour, not controversy.

May God guide you to lead with justice, dignity, and wisdom—for the sake of our people and the generations to come.

Kamal Alkasim is a Concerned Son of Kano.

By Usman Abdullahi Koli

The grandeur of Kano’s emirate is not merely an inheritance of a throne but the custodianship of a deep-rooted history, culture, and tradition that represents the very soul of African heritage. From the era of Bagauda to the reign of Ado Bayero, the emirate has stood as a symbol of resilience, dignity, and continuity. 

Today, as the emirship tussle continues, it presents a defining moment not just for those directly involved but for the entire Kano people, whose unity and stability rest upon the wisdom of their leaders. It is a moment that demands measured actions, guided by history and the sacrifices of great monarchs who prioritised the collective good over personal ambitions.

The Kano Emirate is no stranger to succession disputes; however, history has shown that wise leaders have navigated such crises with patience, foresight, and a commitment to preserving the integrity of the institution. From the reign of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi I to that of Ado Bayero, the emirate has undergone significant transitions- some peaceful, others contentious- but ultimately resolved with a sense of responsibility toward the larger interest of Kano.

Today, we see echoes of the past in the contest between Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and Emir Aminu Ado Bayero. While the legal and political dimensions of the crisis continue to unfold, the moral weight on those involved is immense. The key question remains: Will the dignity, harmony, and prestige of Kano take precedence over personal interests, or will history remember this episode as a moment of avoidable discord?

History is replete with examples of monarchs who faced displacement yet responded with wisdom, ensuring that their thrones remained symbols of honour rather than sources of division. In 1936, King Edward VIII of Britain abdicated the throne out of personal conviction, avoiding a constitutional crisis. 

More recently, King Juan Carlos of Spain voluntarily stepped aside to preserve national unity and dignity. Within Africa, deposed monarchs have often demonstrated restraint, placing the peace of their people above personal grievances.

A particularly relevant example is Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, who, despite the political implications of his removal in 2020, did not rally his supporters to contest the decision. Instead, he accepted his fate with remarkable composure, trusting in destiny and the historical cycle that governs leadership.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is enormously responsible for ensuring that his administration’s actions do not fuel unnecessary tensions in Kano. While he holds constitutional authority over traditional institutions, wisdom dictates that such decisions be made with a far-reaching vision that safeguards Kano’s unity, stability, and the sanctity of its traditions. Political decisions should not be allowed to erode the revered position of the emirate.

To Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, this moment calls for deep introspection on the true essence of leadership. His revered father, Emir Ado Bayero, was an emblem of peace, patience, and sagacity. The respect he commanded was not merely because he sat on the throne but because of his ability to navigate crises with wisdom. Now, his son faces a historic test: will he allow personal ambition to override Kano’s peace, or will he embrace the noble path of sacrifice? The decisions he makes today will shape how history remembers him.

To Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, his reinstatement is a return to power and an opportunity to lead with renewed wisdom and vision. His expectations are immense—not for vengeance or retribution, but for reconciliation and statesmanship. The people of Kano look up to him to use his vast experience, intellect, and leadership to heal divisions, restore trust, and solidify the emirate as a pillar of stability.

Kano is more than a city; it symbolises Africa’s resilience, culture, and civilization. The emirate embodies centuries of tradition that must not be tarnished by personal conflicts. The world is watching, and history is recording. The real question is not who occupies the throne today, but how that throne is preserved for generations to come.

It is crucial for external influences, particularly those in Abuja, to respect the Kano State Government’s decision. The constitution recognizes states as custodians of their emirates, and any interference from outside forces risks escalating tensions rather than resolving them. Political insinuators should avoid fueling discord and instead honour the autonomy of Kano’s leadership.

Now, the great tradition of the Sallah Durbar, which both factions claim to organise, must not become a battleground for supremacy. The grand procession, deeply embedded in Kano’s cultural and Islamic identity, is meant to unite, not divide. It should not be reduced to a contest of power. Both sides must recognize that personal ambitions should never overshadow the collective peace of Kano. True leadership is tested not in times of comfort, but in moments of crisis, and the world is watching to see whether wisdom or ego will prevail.

Great monarchs are remembered not for how fiercely they fought to retain power, but for how wisely they managed transitions, prioritized peace, and left behind legacies of honor. The lessons of Kano’s past emirs—from Bagauda to Ado Bayero—should serve as a guide for present leaders. These revered figures ruled with dignity, wisdom, and a profound sense of duty to their people.

Those who occupy the throne today must consider: Will they be remembered for upholding this legacy or for diminishing it?

May wisdom prevail over pride, and may Kano remain the fortress of culture, tradition, and unity it has always been.

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Nigeria Police Force has retracted its invitation to Alhaji Sanusi regarding the recent unrest during the Sallah celebration in Kano State on March 30, 2025. The invitation was initially extended to gather Alhaji Sanusi’s account of the events that led to the disruption of peace during the festivities.

Following consultations with key stakeholders, Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, emphasized the importance of keeping policing actions free from political bias and misinterpretation. Instead of requiring Alhaji Sanusi’s attendance at the police station, the IGP has directed the operatives of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) to go to Kano and obtain his statement directly.

Prior to the Sallah celebrations, police received credible intelligence suggesting that two rival emirs, Alh Ado Bayero and Alh Lamido Sanusi, intended to hold separate Durbar Festivals, a tradition that involves emirs parading on horseback. To prevent potential violence, IGP Egbetokun deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Abubakar Sadiq, to negotiate with both parties and the Kano State Government, resulting in an agreement to cancel the festivities.

Despite this understanding, Alhaji Sanusi proceeded to ride a horse in a procession post-Eid prayers, which led to escalating tensions with local youths and ultimately resulted in the death of one Usman Sagiru, along with several injuries.

The Nigeria Police Force has assured the public of its commitment to professionalism in investigating the incident, stating that those responsible will face justice. The police further clarified that their actions are driven by principles of neutrality and professionalism.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, reiterated the police’s dedication to conducting thorough investigations into the matter.

By Anwar Usman

The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has affirmed to the residents of Bichi Local Government Area in Kano State that the Emirate Council will ensure the peaceful conveyance of their District Head, Munir Sanusi Bayero, to assume his duties in Bichi.

Sanusi gave this assurance on Wednesday during a solidarity visit by traditional and religious leaders from Bichi, led by the Chairman of Bichi Local Government, Alhaji Hamza Sule, at the Gidan Rumfa palace in Kano.

The Emir explained that a new date would be scheduled for the transfer of the District Head, who was recently turbaned at the palace after an earlier attempt was disrupted.

“I assure you that another day will be fixed, your District Head will surely be brought to you, and everything will take place peacefully,” he said.

The pledge followed an incident last week when security personnel allegedly denied access to the palace to prevent the District Head’s planned departure for Bichi.

According to palace sources, the heavy security presence disrupted the scheduled ceremony, leaving the reasons for the intervention unclear.

“What happened was only a distraction. We still don’t know why it happened, and those involved have not disclosed the reason why they did it. However, this will not stop anything.

In his remark, Alhaji Hamza Sule reaffirmed the people of Bichi’s loyalty to the Emirate and Muhammad Sanusi II’s leadership.

“Even on the controversial day that was fixed for your visit to Bichi to accompany the new District Head, Munir Sunusi Bayero, we were fully ready to receive you, but we only heard that there was a crisis when we were already celebrating your coming.

“We in Bichi, from our Imams, Village Heads, Wards Heads, and everybody, are behind your royalty, and our solidarity is only for you.

“That is why we decided in our numbers to come today and reiterate our loyalty to you and whatever decision you have taken on your domain, Bichi,” he stated.

By Uzair Adam 

The Kano State High Court has adjourned a ruling on the ongoing dispute over renovations to the historic Nasarawa mini palace in Kano until October 10, 2024. 

The case, presided over by Chief Judge Justice Dije Aboki, involves an application seeking to halt the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, from proceeding with modernisation plans for the palace.

The plaintiffs, which include the Kano State Government, the Attorney General, and the Kano Emirate Council, are pushing to preserve the palace’s original structure, arguing that renovations would compromise its cultural and historical significance. 

The Daily Reality reports that the Emir is the sole defendant in the case.

During the hearing, the plaintiff’s counsel, Habib Akilu, noted that the defendant’s legal team was absent and moved for an interlocutory injunction to prevent any renovation until the court delivered its final judgment.

The plaintiffs had previously secured an interim injunction on September 13, 2024, following the release of a proposed plan to modernise the palace. 

In support of the motion, a 33-paragraph affidavit deposed by the Matawallen Kano, Ibrahim Ahmed, emphasised the palace’s importance as a symbol of cultural heritage, warning that any changes could erase its architectural and historical integrity.

Justice Aboki has ordered that all relevant court processes be posted publicly to keep all parties informed.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has banned all public gatherings and demonstrations in the state, citing a potential breakdown of law and order.

This decision comes after intelligence suggested that opposition figures planned to sponsor protests and incite chaos under the guise of supporting the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.

According to a statement by the Governor’s Director-General, Media and Publicity, Sanusi Tofa, “This decisive action is a preemptive strategy aimed at averting any potential breakdown of law and order orchestrated by adversaries of the state.”

The government has directed security agencies to apprehend, detain, and prosecute anyone violating the order.

“We are privy to credible intelligence indicating that certain prominent figures from the opposition party in Kano have devised plans to sponsor student associations and political agitators from other northwestern states,” Tofa said.

“Their plan is to incite chaos under the guise of advocating for the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.”

Governor Yusuf warned student groups against being manipulated by troublemakers, saying, “Through this declaration, we caution student groups against being manipulated by troublemakers who are resolute in fomenting disorder in Kano.”

He urged citizens to go about their normal activities, assuring them that the government would maintain vigilance to ensure peace in the state.

The governor said, “We urge all citizens of the state to carry on with their normal activities as the state retains its serenity.

“We will persist in vigilant oversight of the situation to address any individuals or factions trying to undermine the relative peace that the state currently enjoys.”