Toba Owojaiye reporting
Kano, Kano State
In a surprising turn of events, Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, officially reinstated Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as the Emir of Kano, marking his return to the throne after four years of absence. The move, announced amidst heightened anticipation, also saw the governor depose five emirs appointed during the previous administration, issuing a strict 48-hour ultimatum for them to vacate their official residences and palaces.
Truth Live News gathered that the decision comes following the repeal of the Kano State Emirs (Appointment and Deposition) Law, which had facilitated the creation of additional emirates under the previous governorship. The repeal effectively dissolved the newly established emirates, consolidating the authority back to a single ruler for the Kano Emirate.
Sanusi, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s socio-political and economic landscape, brings with him a legacy of distinguished service, including his tenure as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. However, his relationship with the state government soured over time, leading to his deposition in 2019 amid accusations of insubordination and political maneuvering.
Despite his exile, Sanusi’s influence and support base remained robust, culminating in a Federal High Court ruling in his favor in 2023, declaring his deposition and exile unconstitutional. This legal victory paved the way for his potential return, now realized under Governor Abba Yusuf’s administration.
The decision to reinstate Sanusi and dissolve the additional emirates was met with both support and opposition within the Kano State House of Assembly. While proponents hailed the move as a restoration of unity and historical tradition, critics, such as Minority Leader Ayuba Labaran, accused the governor of pursuing selfish motives, leading to a dramatic walkout during the legislative session.
As the ancient city of Kano braces for Sanusi’s return and the restoration of its traditional leadership structure, the political landscape of the state stands poised for further developments under the renewed reign of the 14th Emir of Kano.