Ganduje Affirms Sanusi’s Status As Emir Of Kano

Former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje on Tuesday publicly acknowledged Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Chiefs, marking a significant moment in the state’s traditional leadership dynamics.

According to Ireporter Online, Ganduje made the recognition during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Deputy Governor of Kano State, Murtala Sule Garo, held at the Government House in Kano. While delivering his remarks, the former governor formally greeted Sanusi, addressing him by his full traditional title, a move that drew loud applause from dignitaries and attendees present at the event.

The development is widely seen as the first public acknowledgment of Sanusi’s status by Ganduje since their highly publicised rift. In 2020, during his tenure as governor, Ganduje had deposed Sanusi from the throne, a decision that stirred controversy across the state and beyond.

Sanusi was later reinstated by Governor Abba Yusuf, who also removed Aminu Ado Bayero, the monarch appointed following Sanusi’s removal. However, Bayero declined to vacate the throne, amid claims of backing from influential political figures, with the matter currently before the courts.

The prolonged emirship dispute has continued to fuel tension within Kano, prompting interventions from security agencies, particularly during traditional events. A notable shift in the situation emerged after Governor Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress, which observers believe may have influenced recent developments.

Subsequently, Sanusi was permitted to host the Sallah Durbar, a significant cultural event he had previously been restricted from holding due to security concerns following incidents of unrest.