Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II has been reinstated as the Emir of Kano following a resolution by the Kano State House of Assembly to dethrone the current Emir and dismantle the four new Emirates established under a controversial 2019 law.
House of Assembly’s Resolution
The Kano State House of Assembly passed a bill to revert to the previous emirate structure, effectively reinstating Sanusi II. While this has not been officially announced, sources indicate that Sanusi II is expected to return to Kano on Friday.
According to an insider source, “With the passage of the Bill, Sanusi automatically stands reinstated. No need for confirmation, the thing to wait for is the Governor to assent to it.”
Background
The restructuring of the Kano Emirate in 2019 was widely seen as a political maneuver aimed at diminishing the influence of Sanusi II, a vocal critic of the former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje’s administration. The creation of the new emirates fragmented the authority of the old Kano Emirate Council, diluting its power and influence.
Legislative Actions
Majority Leader of the Kano State House of Assembly, Lawan Hussaini Chediyar Yan Gurasa, who sponsored the amendment bill, revealed that the bill has been sent to the governor for assent.
“Now there is no longer an active Emir in Kano in all the five Emirates; Kano, Bichi, Gaya, Rano, and Karaye. The law now provides the governor to call on the traditional kingmakers to choose a new king.”
Implications
All district heads elevated or appointed under the repealed law are to revert to their previous positions, restoring the traditional structure of the Kano Emirate.
Bottom Line
The reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II as Emir of Kano marks a significant shift in the state’s traditional and political landscape. This move, pending the governor’s assent, underscores the ongoing power dynamics within Kano’s leadership and reflects broader tensions between political authorities and traditional institutions in Nigeria.
