The Kano Emirate has witnessed an unusual development that deepens the ongoing royal rift as both the 15th and 16th Emirs of Kano made parallel appointments to the highly revered title of Galadima of Kano on Thursday.
Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, reinstated as the 16th Emir of Kano, announced the appointment of Alhaji Munir Sanusi Bayero, the current district head of Bichi, as the new Galadima of Kano. In a separate move, Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, the 15th Emir, appointed Alhaji Sunusi Lamido Ado Bayero to the same position — a dual elevation that reflects the deepening division within the ancient emirate.
The Galadima is the most senior traditional advisor to the Emir and a key figure in the emirate’s decision-making hierarchy. Traditionally, there is only one Galadima, making this dual appointment not just symbolic but politically sensitive.
While Munir Sanusi Bayero was ceremonially honoured by Emir Sanusi II at the historic palace in Kofar Mata, Sunusi Lamido Ado Bayero received his appointment in a separate ceremony held by Emir Bayero at the alternate palace, intensifying the existing tension over the throne.
In addition to this pivotal appointment, Emir Sanusi II also announced the elevation of four other senior traditional figures within the emirate:
Wamban Kano – Alhaji Kabir Tijjani Hashim, District Head of Nassarawa
Turakin Kano – Alhaji Mahmud Ado Bayero, District Head of Gwale
Tafidan Kano – Adam Lamido Sanusi
Yariman Kano – Alhaji Ahmad Abbas Sanusi
The parallel appointments come amid lingering controversy over the rightful occupant of the emirate’s throne. While Emir Sanusi II enjoys the backing of the Kano State Government, Emir Aminu Ado Bayero retains a strong base of support among traditionalists and within segments of the community.