Kano Emirate: Juxtaposing two emirs’ response to tribulation|Victoria Nwaeluwe
The recent history of the Kano Emirate has been marked by major political changes, particularly concerning the deposition of prominent emirs. Two recent notable cases are those of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and Emir Aminu Ado Bayero who were both deposed by Kano State governors at various times.
While Emir Alu had earlier suffered brutal deposition in the hands of the colonial ruler, and Emir Muhammadu Sanusi I left his throne in protest, it was the duo of Muhammadu Sanusi II and Aminu Bayero that suffered what many perceived as dethronement in the hands of local political leaders of Kano descent.
This piece will therefore mirror the way their respective departures from power highlight contrasting approaches to leadership transitions and the implications for peace in Kano State.
The peaceful departure of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II was marked on March 9, 2020, when he was deposed by Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. His removal was rooted in a combination of political tensions and disagreements with the state government over various issues, including governance and traditional authority. Many believed his disagreement with the then Governor Ganduje moved the governor to, first curtail his power, territory and authority before finally dethroning him.
Despite the circumstances surrounding his deposition, Sanusi’s exit from Kano was characterised by a notable degree of calmness and dignity. Upon his deposition, Sanusi demonstrated respect for the traditions associated with his role as Emir. He acknowledged the authority of the state government while maintaining his dignity as a former Emir.
In his public statements following his removal, Sanusi emphasised the importance of peace and unity in Kano State. He called for cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure stability in the region. Sanusi was sooner placed under house arrest but was later allowed to leave Kano peacefully.
His departure was facilitated by security arrangements that ensured he left without incident or unrest. Following his removal, Sanusi engaged in dialogue with various community leaders and stakeholders, emphasising reconciliation rather than conflict.
The deposition of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero
In contrast to Sanusi’s peaceful exit, Emir Aminu Ado Bayero faced a different scenario when he was deposed by Governor Abba Yusuf in May, 2024. Unlike Sanusi’s relatively smooth transition out of power, Ado Bayero’s refusal to leave Kano sparked tensions within the emirate and raised concerns about potential unrest.
Aminu Bayero’s refusal to vacate his position is seen as an assertion of traditional authority against what he perceived as political interference from the state government. Of course, his perception is similar to the views of Muhammadu Sanusi’s supporters in 2020.
But, while the political landscape surrounding Ado Bayero’s deposition was fraught with heightened tensions between the traditional institutions and state government, Muhammadu Sanusi avoided causing any heightened societal divisions regarding leadership legitimacy.
Unlike Sanusi’s departure, which prioritised peace, Ado Bayero’s situation risked escalating into conflict due to public demonstrations and protests from supporters who rallied behind him. The contrasting experiences of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and Emir Aminu Ado Bayero provided valuable insights into leadership transitions within traditional institutions.
Sanusi’s emphasis on dialogue post-deposition highlights how constructive communication can mitigate tensions during leadership changes. While both emirs faced political challenges, their responses reflect differing approaches—Sanusi chose respect for tradition while Aminu Bayero asserted authority amidst political strife.
The impact of both approaches on community stability could be glimpsed through the prism of patriotism and selfishness.
The peaceful departure associated with Sanusi contributed positively to community stability, whereas Aminu Bayero’s refusal raised concerns about potential unrest that could destabilise Kano State further.
On the whole, the peaceful exit of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II stands in stark contrast to Emir Aminu Bayero’s refusal to leave after being deposed. These events underscore critical lessons about leadership transitions within traditional institutions in Nigeria—particularly regarding how such transitions can impact social cohesion and stability within communities like Kano State.
Presently, the internal strife that was caused by the refusal of Aminu Bayero to embrace peace has led to divisions among communities that have traditionally coexisted peacefully. Unsettled peace is also deterring investment and disrupting economic activities in the state while social ties and shared interests have been fractured.
As government in Kano State has been making all efforts to stabilise the situation, there is the need for the Federal Government to jettison political interest and do the needful to allow peace to reign. There is no joy in having two Emirs in Kano, and there is no way anyone other than the state government can enthrone an Emir in the state.
Credit:The Guardian