On Friday, the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, reappointed Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano. The reinstatement took place at the Government House in Kano, where Sanusi was handed his letter of reappointment.

Kano State Governor Reappoints Muhammadu Sanusi II

Governor Yusuf stated, “By the powers conferred on me by the Kano Emirate Council Law of 1984 and 2024, and supported by the recommendation of the kingmakers, I have the singular pleasure of confirming the reappointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and the head of the Kano Emirate Council.”

The governor highlighted that Sanusi’s return to the throne was due to his “competence, credibility, and popularity.” He encouraged the new Emir to adhere to Islamic principles and to use his position to promote unity within the emirate, fostering harmony among the various Islamic sects in the state.

How Sanusi Was Reinstated

Muhammadu Sanusi II, who previously ruled as the 14th Emir of Kano, experienced a turbulent period starting in 2020. This began with a conflict with the former state governor and current National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Ganduje. Subsequently, the Kano House of Assembly passed a bill to divide the Kano Emirate Council, diminishing Sanusi’s influence by creating five separate emirates. Sanusi was then deposed and replaced by Aminu Ado Bayero.

However, on May 23, 2024, the Assembly dissolved these newly created emirate councils—Bichi, Karaye, Gaya, Rano, and Kano—and passed the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Bill 2024. This new bill replaced the Kano State Emirates Council Law of 2019, paving the way for Sanusi’s reinstatement.

The governor also issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the five emirs to vacate their official residences and palaces.

Reflecting on these events, Governor Yusuf remarked, “Sanusi was victimized when he was dethroned as the emir. His reinstatement is a positive step for the people of the state.” He further explained that the decision followed extensive meetings with the kingmakers, the Speaker of the Assembly, and security heads. “We all gathered in the chamber where I received the bill that repealed the former law, and we signed the new law repealing all the appointments.”

“We did that out of our convictions and belief that this gentleman was victimized in 2019. We all feel that we must restore what is due to the good people of the state. Let me use this opportunity to humbly thank the Speaker and all members of the House for your determination and respect for the rule of law. It shows your interest in the welfare of the people of the state,” Yusuf added.

The reinstatement ceremony was attended by traditional rulers, kingmakers, and other dignitaries, marking a significant event in Kano’s history.

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