Residents of Kano are fearful of potential chaos following the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as Emir and his return to the palace.
Sanusi replaced Aminu Ado Bayero, who was removed by the state government despite allegedly having the support of National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu.
Bayero has vowed to challenge his deposition in court and has moved into the Gidan Nasarawa after obtaining a court injunction.
Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam accused former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of using federal influence to impose Bayero on the state, alleging that Ganduje colluded with Ribadu to provide an aircraft for Bayero’s return to Kano. However, a Federal High Court in Kano has ordered the state government not to enforce the Emirate Council Repeal Law 2024, which led to Sanusi’s reinstatement.
Governor Abba Yusuf and Sanusi held a closed-door meeting with security chiefs on Saturday, amidst calls from Kano State Ulamas for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the Emirship dispute to prevent violence. The Ulamas urged the President to allow the people of Kano to resolve the issue peacefully, without force or loss of lives.
The Kano State Police Command has pledged to maintain the status quo, following a court order, while Bayero has appealed for calm and assured residents that justice will be served. He emphasized the importance of Kano State and the need for responsible and just leadership, reiterating that justice will prevail and no one is above the law.