Sanusi’s reinstatement has significant implications for the political and social landscape of Kano and Nigeria at large. His return to the throne is seen as a triumph for traditional institutions and a reinforcement of their relevance in contemporary governance. It also highlights the ongoing tension between traditional authority and state power, a dynamic that has shaped Nigerian politics for decades.
In a dramatic turn of events marked by a gripping saga of power struggles, political intrigue, and constitutional contradictions, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has been reinstalled as the Emir of Kano. His reinstatement, which comes after years of legal battles and public discourse, highlights the complex relationship between traditional authority and state power in Nigeria.
Muhammadu Sanusi II (as he is addressed), the 14th Emir of Kano, has a long and storied history of public service and controversy. A former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Sanusi II was known for his outspokenness and criticism of government policies. He was also a vocal advocate for reform and transparency in the banking sector. During his tenure as CBN governor, he implemented several reforms aimed at strengthening the banking system and promoting economic growth. His efforts earned him recognition both locally and internationally, and he became a respected figure in the world of finance.
Sanusi was initially deposed as Emir in March 2020 by then-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State. The official reasons cited for his removal were allegations of corruption and insubordination. However, many observers believed that his ousting was politically motivated, stemming from his criticism of state policies and his reformist stance, which often put him at odds with the ruling elite.
The Rise to the Throne
Sanusi II’s appointment as the Emir of Kano in 2014 was seen as a significant development, given his background and experience in public service. The Emir of Kano is a revered traditional title, and Sanusi II’s appointment was seen as a nod to his achievements and reputation. As Emir, Sanusi II continued to speak out on issues affecting the nation, including corruption, poverty, and inequality. His outspokenness earned him both praise and criticism, with some hailing him as a champion of the people and others accusing him of overstepping his bounds.
The Fall: A Calculated Move by Ganduje
The removal of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi was not an abrupt decision but a calculated move by Governor Ganduje. Tensions between Sanusi and Ganduje had been simmering for years. Sanusi, known for his reformist zeal, had openly criticised the state government’s handling of economic and social issues. His comments on the mismanagement of state resources and the need for better educational and healthcare systems in Kano were seen as direct affronts to Ganduje’s administration.
Sanusi’s reformist agenda and his outspoken nature were at odds with Ganduje’s approach to governance. The governor, who had a more conservative stance, viewed Sanusi’s criticisms as undermining his authority. This conflict reached its peak in 2020 when Ganduje accused Sanusi of mismanaging the Emirate’s finances and failing to respect traditional and state protocols.
In a move that many saw as a strategic power play, Ganduje signed into law the Kano State Emirate Council Bill, which split the Kano Emirate into five smaller emirates. This law effectively reduced Sanusi’s influence by appointing new emirs over these newly created emirates. Despite Sanusi’s popularity and the public outcry, Ganduje proceeded with his plan, ultimately leading to Sanusi’s removal on March 9, 2020. He was subsequently exiled to Nasarawa State, a move reminiscent of colonial-era practices meant to diminish the influence of dethroned leaders.
The Legal Battle: A Fight for Justice
Following his removal, Sanusi’s legal team launched a series of appeals, arguing that his dethronement violated due process and constitutional rights. The legal battle was arduous and protracted, with various court hearings and judgments. Sanusi’s lawyers contended that the Kano State Government had acted outside its constitutional powers and that the procedures leading to his removal were flawed and unjust.
Throughout the legal proceedings, Sanusi maintained a dignified silence, focusing instead on his scholarly and philanthropic pursuits. He continued to speak out on national issues, using his platform to advocate for social justice, educational reform, and economic development. His exile, rather than silencing him, seemed to embolden his resolve to fight for justice and the rule of law.
The Rise: Reinstatement by Governor Abba Yusuf
The political landscape in Kano underwent a significant shift with the election of Governor Abba Yusuf in 2023. Yusuf, who succeeded Ganduje, had campaigned on a platform of justice and reconciliation. His administration promised to address the injustices of the past and foster unity among the people of Kano.
One of Yusuf’s first major acts as governor was to address the controversial removal of Sanusi. Recognising the deep cultural and historical significance of the Kano Emirate, Yusuf initiated a review of the events leading to Sanusi’s dethronement.
The Kano State House of Assembly, which is dominated by members of Yusuf’s New Nigeria Peoples Party, on Thursday repealed the Kano Emirate Council Laws and passed a bill dissolving the additional emirates created by Ganduje.
Later on Thursday, after thorough consultations with legal experts, traditional leaders, and stakeholders, Governor Yusuf signed the bill into law and announced the reinstatement of Sanusi as the Emir of Kano, returning Kano to one big Emirate.
The decision was met with widespread acclaim from Sanusi’s supporters and the general populace, who viewed it as a restoration of justice. However, it also stirred controversy, particularly among those loyal to Ganduje and the newly appointed emirs of the fragmented emirates. Yusuf’s move was seen by some as politically motivated, aimed at consolidating power and gaining favour with Sanusi’s supporters.
The Return: Sanusi’s Triumphant Speech
In his first public address after his reinstallation, Emir Sanusi II emphasised the independence of traditional rulers from state political structures. “By the time the announcement was made that I had been removed for insubordination…and you’d think that somebody who thinks you’re subordinate to him is somebody who is superior to you,” Sanusi said, indicating that he is not insubordinate to the governor as a traditional ruler.
“That I choose not to go into politics does not make me a subordinate human being,” the Emir said.
Sanusi’s statement underscores a fundamental constitutional contradiction in Nigeria. While traditional rulers hold significant cultural and moral sway, their roles are not always clearly defined within the modern political framework. This often leads to friction between elected officials and hereditary leaders. Sanusi’s assertive stance suggests a possible shift in this dynamic, potentially redefining the balance of power.
However, Sanusi’s triumphant rhetoric only tries to hide what is in plain sight: Governors are indeed superior; they determine who is Emir. This is evident in the fact that it was a governor who deposed him as Emir, and it is another governor who reinstated him.
The Political and Social Implications
Sanusi’s reinstatement has significant implications for the political and social landscape of Kano and Nigeria at large. His return to the throne is seen as a triumph for traditional institutions and a reinforcement of their relevance in contemporary governance. It also highlights the ongoing tension between traditional authority and state power, a dynamic that has shaped Nigerian politics for decades.
Supporters of Sanusi view his reinstatement as a victory for justice and a reaffirmation of the cultural heritage embodied by the Emirate. They believe that Sanusi’s progressive views and commitment to reform will bring much-needed changes to the region. His advocacy for educational reform, economic development, and social justice has earned him a reputation as a forward-thinking leader willing to challenge the status quo.
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Critics, however, caution that his reinstallation might reignite tensions between the Kano State Government and the Emirate, potentially destabilising the region. They argue that Sanusi’s return could lead to a power struggle between the newly appointed emirs and those loyal to Ganduje’s administration. This could create a fractious environment, undermining efforts to promote unity and development.
A commentator wondered: “I hope the Emirship of Kano does not become a musical chair. What happens if someone from Ganduje’s camp becomes the Emir again?”
Sanusi II’s reinstatement is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marks a victory for the traditional institution and a recognition of its importance in Nigerian society. The Emir of Kano is a revered title, and Sanusi II’s reinstatement is a nod to the institution’s enduring relevance. Secondly, Sanusi II’s reinstatement sends a strong message to politicians that traditional institutions will not be bullied or intimidated. His outspokenness and criticism of government policies have made him a thorn in the flesh of many politicians, and his reinstatement is a testament to his courage and conviction.
Thirdly, Sanusi II’s reinstatement raises questions about the role of traditional institutions in modern Nigeria. The Emir of Kano is a traditional title, but it also carries significant political and cultural weight. Sanusi II’s reinstatement highlights the complex and often contentious relationship between traditional institutions and modern political powers in Nigeria. Finally, Sanusi II’s reinstatement is a reminder that power is not absolute and that traditional institutions will always play a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Nigeria.
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The Role of Traditional Rulers in Modern Nigeria
The reinstatement of Sanusi raises broader questions about the role of traditional rulers in contemporary Nigerian society. Historically, traditional rulers have played a pivotal role in maintaining cultural heritage, social order, and local governance. However, their position within the modern political framework is often ambiguous, leading to conflicts with state authorities.
Sanusi’s assertive stance on the independence of traditional rulers from political interference challenges the existing power dynamics. His return to the throne could set a precedent for other traditional leaders, emboldening them to assert their authority and resist political subjugation. This could lead to a redefinition of the relationship between traditional and state institutions, fostering a more balanced and collaborative approach to governance.
Legal Battles Continue?
In what appears to be a continuous legal battle, a Federal High Court in Kano has intervened, issuing an order to halt the enforcement of the Kano State Emirate Council Repeal Law which reinstated Sanusi as Emir of Kano. This decision comes in response to an application filed by Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, challenging the dissolution of the newly created emirate councils. The court’s directive to maintain the status quo ante underscores the legal complexities surrounding the governance restructuring in Kano and the ongoing power struggle between different factions.
The court’s intervention highlights the contentious nature of the political landscape, with conflicting interests at play. While the reinstatement of Sanusi represents a significant victory for traditional leadership, the legal challenges underscore the tensions between state authorities and traditional institutions. The outcome of the upcoming court hearing on the fundamental rights application will likely shape the future trajectory of governance and traditional authority in Kano.
As the legal battle ensues, the people of Kano await clarity on the fate of their traditional leadership and the governance structure of the emirate. The outcome will not only impact the individuals involved but also hold broader implications for the political and cultural landscape of Kano State. As stakeholders navigate this intricate terrain, the pursuit of justice, stability, and respect for traditional institutions remain paramount in shaping the region’s future position in the country.
Okikiola Sulaimon also contributed to this report.
