The amendment of an existing law in Kano state could see the reinstatement of former Emir of Kano and former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Muhammad Sanusi II was dethroned as Emir of Kano in March 2020 “for total disrespect to lawful instructions from the office of the governor”. He was banished to Nasarawa state.
The decision was backed by a 2019 legislation enacted by Governor Abdullahi Ganduje’s administration during a public feud with Sanusi.
The law had split the Kano emirate into five parts – Kano, Rano, Gaya, Karaye and Bichi – to curtail Sanusi’s influence, eventually leading to his replacement by his cousin, Aminu Ado Bayero.
The Kano State House of Assembly has initiated steps to amend the law, a development that could pave the way for Sanusi’s reinstatement.
Fixing the law
On Tuesday, the Assembly resolved to amend the Kano State Emirs (Appointment and Deposition) Law.
Majority Leader Hussien Dala, who moved the motion, emphasized why it was important to revisit the law and address issues arising from the 2019 amendment.
“We must ensure that our traditional institutions are governed by laws that reflect fairness and justice,” Dala said.
Speaker Jibril Isma’il Falgore assured that the amendment process would be conducted with transparency and involve all stakeholders. “We are committed to conducting a fair and open amendment process,” he stated.
Kwankwaso Factor
Sanusi, formerly the Governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank, was known as Lamido Sanusi Lamido before ascending the throne in 2014. His tenure as a central banker ended in February 2014 when President Goodluck Jonathan removed him. As a spiritual leader in the Tijaniyyah Sufi Order, he now goes by Khalifa Sanusi II.
Sanusi’s return is backed by former Gov. Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Kano governor and a prominent figure in Kano politics and a long-time adversary of Ganduje. It was Mr Kwankwaso who appointed Sanusi emir.
Mr Kwankwaso had previously announced plans to review the law that facilitated Sanusi’s removal.
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