On Friday, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano. Sanusi received his letter of reinstatement at the Government House in Kano.
The governor 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.”
Governor Yusuf emphasized that Sanusi’s reappointment was due to his “competence, credibility, and popularity,” urging the newly reinstated emir to adhere to Islamic teachings and use his position to unite the emirate and foster harmony among the Islamic sects in the state.
How Sanusi Was Reinstated
Sanusi II initially served as the 14th Emir of Kano before his removal. His troubles began in 2020 following a conflict with the former 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 into five emirates, reducing Sanusi’s influence. He was then dethroned and replaced by Aminu Ado Bayero, the 15th Emir.
However, on May 23, 2024, the Assembly dissolved the five newly created emirate councils—Bichi, Karaye, Gaya, Rano, and Kano—and passed the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Bill 2024. This new law paved the way for Sanusi’s reinstatement. Governor Yusuf also issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the five emirs to vacate their official residences and palaces.
Reflecting on the past events, Governor Yusuf said, “We had a series of meetings with the kingmakers yesterday, extensive discussions with the Speaker, and we also sat with all the heads of security. At the end of the day, we all gathered in the chamber where I received the bill that repealed the former law, and we signed the new law repealing all the appointments.”
He added, “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.”
The governor expressed his gratitude to the Speaker and the House members for their determination and respect for the rule of law, highlighting their commitment to the welfare of the state’s people.
The event was attended by traditional rulers, kingmakers, and other top dignitaries.
