By Balarabe Muhammad Yakasai PhD
Kano State, as the largest political entity in Northern Nigeria, holds immense influence over the region. The current turmoil in Kano is not just a local issue; it has the potential to spark violent resistance that could engulf the entire Northern region and beyond. The ongoing power tussle in Kano State, therefore, demands urgent attention and resolution.
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Northern Nigeria’s traditional rulers are closely monitoring the federal government’s handling of the Kano situation. Traditional rulers in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Katsina face similar deposition threats. Eyes are now on the federal government to see how it handles the Kano issue. If Aminu Ado Bayero and other emirs are deposed, it could lead to a domino effect, with the Sultan and other Emirs joining the Emir of Kano in being removed by any successive government. This scenario poses a significant threat to regional stability.
If the situation is allowed to fester, it could lead to the resignation or sack of traditional leaders, either as Emirs or District Heads. Such a development would be unprecedented and catastrophic, setting a dangerous precedent under the current administration. Preserving these traditional institutions is crucial to maintaining the socio-cultural fabric of Northern Nigeria. They remain the only semblance of local authority as the local government has been emasculated by state governors.
Another disturbing trend is the possibility of governors appointing cronies as Emirs and District Heads, effectively reducing these lifelong positions to political appointments. This practice would undermine the customs, traditions, and moral values that these institutions represent.
Emir Sanusi, despite his controversial tenure, is being propped up largely by the young NNPP blind supporters and a section of hired thugs who are being fed with dangerous drugs and weapons to terrorize the peace loving people of kano. This support base, though diminished, is still potent and could escalate the crisis.
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The Kwankwasiyya movement, which manifests as the NNPP political party, is poised to exploit the current situation to consolidate power by force and exacerbate the security challenges in Kano and beyond. If the ongoing upheaval in Kano succeeds, it could trigger similar uprisings in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara, where village and district heads have already faced unjust deposition.
In 2019, supporters of Wamako in Sokoto chanted the slogan “sabon Gwamma, sabon Sarki” (new governor, new sultan). Recently, the Sokoto state governor sacked 15 district heads, which could be a precursor to further instability. Today, the chant of “sabon Gwamma sabon Sarki” (new governor, new emir) echoes in Kano. This situation should be taken seriously to avoid a scenario where governors treat traditional rulers like local government chairmen and start appointing caretaker emirs.
The deposition of traditional rulers such as Emirs and Sultans in Northern Nigeria by colonial, military, and political authorities has historically had profound and lasting impacts on communities and traditional institutions. Notable examples include Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki, deposed in 1996 by General Sani Abacha’s regime, and Emir Al-Mustapha Haruna Jokolo, deposed in 2005 by the Kebbi State Government. However, rarely has a deposed Emir been reinstated, underscoring the lasting impact on authority, influence, and cultural heritage. The deposition often lead to a loss of credibility and legitimacy for traditional institutions, erosion of cultural practices, and community discontent, illustrating the delicate balance between preserving traditional leadership and navigating political power dynamics.
The ongoing crisis in Kano has significant political ramifications, with the NNPP and its national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, along with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, primarily engaging in political maneuvers ahead of 2027.
Public dissatisfaction with the Kano State Government’s shabby handling of the issue is widespread. If the government has issues with Aminu Ado Bayero, they should not involve other emirs or extend it to the lineage of the revered late Emir Alhaji Ado Bayero. Any attempt to abolish emirates or depose their emirs could lead to violent protests in Kano, as we have unfortunately started witnessing with street protests erupting in the four other emirates dissolved by the Kano state government. The security situation may likely spread across the whole state if immediate remedial action is not taken to resolve the issue quickly. It could also set bad precedents across Northern Nigeria.
The federal government must decisively intervene immediately to resolve this crisis. The FG must take the issue to the courts for a final verdict. Both parties need to be made aware of the broader security implications for Northern Nigeria and the country as a whole. Addressing the Kano crisis promptly and effectively is vital to maintaining stability and upholding the integrity of our traditional institutions. The stakes are too high to ignore.
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BALARABE Muhammad Yakasai PhD
University of Manchester
United Kingdom
WhatsApp : +44 7780 076223
[email protected]
Twitter: @Bala_yakasai
