The tussle over the Kano Emirate will soon be resolved, the state government declared yesterday.
Information and Internal Affairs Commissioner Ibrahim Waiya broke the news in Kano while addressing reporters on the defection of Governor Abba Yusuf from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Muhammadu Sanusi II was appointed Emir of Kano when Rabiu Kwankwaso was governor, but he was dethroned by the administration of Abdullahi Ganduje, who appointed Aminu Ado Bayero.
Ganduje thereafter created four additional first class emirates.
Yusuf’s administration dethroned Bayero in May 2024 and reinstated Sanusi II as emir, citing the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Law 2024, which dissolved the five emirate councils created by Ganduje, including Kano emirate.
Bayero refused to vacate the palace, claiming he was the rightful Emir, leading to a standoff between his supporters and those of Sanusi II.
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The courts have issued conflicting orders, with some ruling in favour of Sanusi II and others in favour of Bayero.
The situation has sparked tensions and protests in Kano, with both sides claiming legitimacy. Bayero is said to have the backing of an official of the Federal Government, while Sanusi II has the support of Governor Yusuf.
Fielding a question on the situation, Comrade Waiya assured residents that concrete measures have already been put in place to restore lasting peace and stability in the ancient city.
He said the Kano State government is committed to dialogue and peaceful engagement with all stakeholders, stressing that the administration is determined to ensure that the Emirate matter does not continue to generate tension or distract governance.
According to him, the government’s approach is guided by respect for the rule of law, traditional institutions, and the collective interest of the people of Kano State.
Speaking on the governor’s switch to APC, Waiya said the movement was a development that would bring significant benefits to the state.
He said Kano residents should expect increased dividends of democracy, noting that closer alignment with the Federal Government would attract more interventions, projects, and development initiatives to the state.
“The defection opens more doors for Kano. With stronger collaboration with the Federal Government, we expect more support in critical sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, and social welfare,” Waiya said.
Comrade Waiya emphasised that the state government remains focused on governance, unity, and development, urging Kano residents to remain calm and supportive as efforts were being put in place to resolve outstanding issues and move the state forward.
He reaffirmed the Yusuf administration’s commitment to transparency, peace, and inclusive governance, assuring that the interests of Kano people would always remain paramount above personal interests.