In a significant development in the traditional leadership crisis in Kano State, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has reportedly ordered the reinstatement of HRH Aminu Ado Bayero as the Emir of Kano. This information was disclosed by Kano State Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdussalam, during an interview with journalists in Kano.
The directive from the National Security Adviser to restore Aminu Ado Bayero as the Emir stands in direct opposition to recent actions taken by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. Governor Yusuf recently signed the Kano State Emirates Council (Amendment Number 2) Law, 2024, which reinstates Muhammadu Sanusi II as Emir and abolishes the five additional emirate councils created earlier.
Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam voiced the administration’s confusion and concern over the federal directive. “National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu ordered the return of HRH Aminu Ado Bayero as Emir of Kano. We’re confused,” he stated, highlighting the tension between state and federal directives.
Governor Yusuf’s legislation aimed to consolidate the emirate system under Kano and reinstate Sanusi II, who was deposed in 2020 by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. The law’s signing has led to heightened security at the Kano Emir’s Palace as the state government prepares to facilitate Sanusi II’s return.
The situation remains fluid, with the state and federal governments at odds over the leadership of one of Nigeria’s most significant traditional institutions.
