Sanusi remains substantive Kano Emir, NNPP reiterates

Traditional flag flies at Nasarawa palace

Spokesperson for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Ladipo Johnson, has asserted that there is no confusion whatsoever regarding the legal crossfire trailing the Emirship dispute in Kano State.

Speaking yesterday on a live programme, Ladipo explained that many had initially assumed that the first ruling by Justice Liman was rooted in mischief, given that the “Federal High Court had no jurisdiction whatsoever to entertain the matter, and that is why the ruling avoided interpreting the law.”

He added: “Chieftaincy is not a right, it is a privilege, and the Federal High Court has no jurisdiction whatsoever to listen to a case within the state, hence, Emir Sanusi is the substantive, de-facto, de-jure Emir of Kano.”

The ruling party in the state clarified that matters concerning Kano’s Emirship are the sole preserve of the governor, and more importantly, “there is an interim injunction in a court of competent jurisdiction – the High Court of Kano that Emir Sanusi cannot be removed.”

HOWEVER, amid the lingering crisis, the traditional and official flag was hoisted at the Nasarawa mini palace as early as 6am yesterday.

The action tends to reaffirm the authority of the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, who currently occupies the palace.

The flag is a symbol of authority and legitimacy of the monarch that is traditionally raised every morning at 6am and lowered at 6pm.

It also signifies the presence of the Emir and remains down when he is officially outside the palace or travelling.

Kano has been thrown into controversy following the repeal of the Kano Emirates Council Law by the House of Assembly.

This was swiftly followed by the dethronement of Bayero by Governor Abba Yusuf.

Additionally, the governor reversed the creation of new emirates of Bichi, Rano, Karaye, and dismissed the emirs appointed by his predecessor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

The Kano Emirate dispute continues to see both Aminu Ado Bayero and the 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II laying claim to the throne.