I Can Die Tomorrow- Emir Sanusi Says, Reveals Why Bayero Is In Pains As Their Tussle Worsens
Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, has addressed the ongoing dispute involving him and the ousted Emir, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero.
Both men are asserting their rights to the throne, with Sanusi reinstated by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, while Bayero is legally challenging his removal thereby causing lingering tension in the state.
Governor Yusuf recently deposed Bayero and four other Emirs, ordering them to relinquish power within 48 hours. Bayero, who was out of town at the time, returned and took residence in the mini palace in Nasarawa, prompting the governor to order his immediate arrest.
In response, Bayero filed a legal challenge against the governor’s decision, seeking to overturn the law that led to his removal and Sanusi’s reinstatement.
In an interview with Saturday Sun, Sanusi commented on the dissatisfaction among those who benefited from the previous system, indirectly referring to Bayero and others affected by the law’s repeal. He explained, “What we are dealing with is a situation where somebody divided us. And actually, when you create these things, some people get some privileges. They didn’t ask for it, but they’ve enjoyed it for four years.”
Sanusi elaborated on the historical context, stating that when former Governor Ganduje established new emirates, there was no existing law to amend, leading to the creation of new laws and emirates that had never existed in Kano’s thousand-year history. He highlighted that the newly created emirates, including Kano Emirate with eight local governments, were unprecedented.
“When Ganduje wanted to create these Emirates, he could not find a law to amend. He started by amending Emirates Appointment and Deposition Law, which the court struck down. So, he had to, de novo, ex nihilo, out of nothing create a law and create emirates, new emirates that never existed.”
Sanusi further explained that the new governor aimed to address this disruption to preserve Kano’s long-standing history and traditions, reverting to the original order. He emphasized, “We cannot in the interest of preserving something with a history of four years abolish a history of one thousand plus years. He says let’s go back to the original order.”
He acknowledged the pain of those who lost their positions but stressed the importance of the broader historical and cultural restoration. “The people who were beneficiaries of this would hurt. And we understand that. It is not their fault. But we cannot because we do not want to harm or hurt them and allow it to go on.”
Sanusi urged all members of the royal family and Kano’s citizens to recognize the significance of these actions for the emirate’s future. “For all of us to look at the big picture and see that what has been done has been done to restore the glory of our emirate and to protect our own history and custom. For me, even now that I am here, only God knows how long I will be here. I can die tomorrow.”
