"We Return Sanusi Out of Conviction" - Gov Yusuf, Reinstates Emir with a Call for Unity!

On May 24, 2024, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State made a significant move by presenting the letter of reinstatement to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II. This action marked the official return of Sanusi to the emirate, restoring him to his former position from which he was controversially removed in 2019.

The ceremony, held on Friday, was a momentous occasion, attended by various dignitaries, traditional leaders, and members of the public. Governor Yusuf, while presenting the letter, expressed that the reinstatement of Emir Sanusi was driven by a firm conviction that Sanusi had been unjustly victimized during his previous tenure.

Governor Yusuf articulated the reasons behind Sanusi’s return to the throne, emphasizing that Sanusi’s removal in 2019 was seen by many as an act of victimization. He stated, “We return Sanusi out of conviction that he was victimized in 2019. We also return him as the rightful Emir of Kano, to continue the good job he was doing for the good of Kano People.”

Addressing the legislative process that facilitated Sanusi’s reinstatement, Governor Yusuf underscored the legal framework supporting this decision. He highlighted the role of the Kano State House of Assembly in passing the bill that enabled the reinstatement. “Once a Bill is signed into law, it has become law and nobody can change that,” the governor insisted, reaffirming the legitimacy of the legislative process.

Governor Yusuf praised Emir Sanusi’s qualities, including his competency, dedication, and zeal for the development of Kano State. He expressed confidence that Sanusi’s leadership would continue to benefit the people of Kano. “Your reappointment was guided by the collective belief and judgement of your competency, dedication and zeal for the development of Kano State and its environs,” he said.

The governor also urged Sanusi to be guided by the teachings of Islam in his conduct as Emir, reflecting the values and principles that have defined his leadership. “As you ascend the throne of the Kano Emirate of Kano State, you should be guided in your conducts by the teachings of Islam which you are known for,” he added.

In his remarks, Governor Yusuf called upon Emir Sanusi to work towards uniting the family of Ibrahim Dabo, a historical and influential family in Kano, and to promote unity among different Islamic sects. This, he stressed, was essential for fostering peace and harmony within the emirate. Yusuf urged Sanusi to reunite the family of Ibrahim Dabo and to ensure that Islamic sects are brought together as one worshipers of Allah.

Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, ascended to the throne as the Emir of Kano in 2014. His tenure was marked by bold reforms and outspoken views on social and economic issues. However, his reign was abruptly cut short in March 2020 when he was dethroned by the then-governor Abdullahi Ganduje, following accusations of insubordination and financial mismanagement. Sanusi and his supporters have consistently denied these allegations, viewing his removal as politically motivated.

The reinstatement of Emir Sanusi has not been without controversy. The legal framework that facilitated his return has been challenged in court, leading to an ex-parte order from a Federal High Court in Kano to maintain the status quo ante pending the resolution of the suit. This legal challenge underscores the ongoing tensions and complexities surrounding Sanusi’s reinstatement.

Despite the legal challenges, the reinstatement of Emir Sanusi represents a significant development in Kano’s traditional and political landscape. His return to the throne is seen by many as a corrective measure to address past grievances and to restore stability and continuity within the emirate.

As Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II resumes his role, the expectations are high for him to continue his reformist agenda and to work towards the unity and development of Kano State. Governor Yusuf’s gesture of presenting the letter of reinstatement is not just a symbolic act but a reaffirmation of Sanusi’s rightful place in Kano’s history and future.

The coming months will be crucial as Emir Sanusi navigates the challenges and opportunities that come with his reinstatement. His ability to unite different factions, promote economic and social reforms, and adhere to Islamic principles will be pivotal in shaping the legacy of his renewed tenure.