SANUSI II REINSTATED

Sanusi II Reinstated as Emir of Kano Four Years After Deposition

In a significant turn of events, Muhammadu Sanusi II has been reinstated as the Emir of Kano four years after being deposed and banished by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. The reinstatement occurred following Governor Abba Yusuf's approval of the new Emirate Law passed by the Kano State House of Assembly.

Previously, the Assembly under Ganduje's administration had amended the emirate law, increasing the number of first-class emirs from one to five, which led to Sanusi's deposition. However, the new legislation repeals this amendment, dissolving the four additional emirates of Rano, Karaye, Bichi, and Gaya, and restoring the emirate system to its original state.

Governor Yusuf, acting swiftly to prevent any legal impediments, signed the law and brought Sanusi back from Lagos, where he was attending an investment summit. This move preempted any potential court orders aimed at halting Sanusi's reinstatement.

Following the reinstatement, Governor Yusuf ordered the dethroned emirs to hand over their possessions to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs within 48 hours. The Kano State Assembly plans to establish new second-class emirate councils under the reinstated Emir of Kano.

The Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Muhammad Butu-Butu, and Majority Leader, Alhaji Lawan Hussaini Dala, emphasized that repealing the previous law was necessary to restore Kano's traditional integrity and unity. They argued that the creation of multiple emirates had diluted the state's cultural and political influence.

Public reactions in Kano have been mixed. Some residents, like Ahmad Aliyu, expressed concern that the decentralization had benefited local development, while others, like tricycle rider Usman Tanimu, celebrated Sanusi's return, praising his leadership and generosity. 

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) expressed concern over the political motivations behind these changes and urged caution to maintain peace and stability in the state.

This dramatic reinstatement marks a significant moment in Kano's history, highlighting the complexities and sensitivities involved in its traditional and political landscape.