With Oludare Marindoti

In the intricate tapestry of Nigerian traditional leadership, the saga of Muhammadu Sanusi II stands as a testament to the complex interplay between integrity, political power, and cultural heritage. Sanusi’s journey from a reformist central banker to a traditional monarch encapsulates the challenges faced by progressive thinkers within conservative structures.

Sanusi first garnered national attention as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), where his tenure was marked by an unyielding commitment to transparency and accountability. His bold revelation of a $20 billion discrepancy in oil revenues in 2014 led to his suspension, a consequence of his audacity to confront entrenched interests. This episode underscored the inherent risks associated with speaking truth to power in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Undeterred, Sanusi ascended to the throne as the 14th Emir of Kano on June 8, 2014, succeeding his grand-uncle, Ado Bayero. His enthronement was not merely a ceremonial elevation but a strategic positioning of a modern thinker within a traditional institution. As emir, Sanusi transcended conventional roles, advocating for educational reforms, women’s rights, and economic development within the conservative northern region. His outspoken nature, however, often placed him at odds with the political establishment.

In a move widely perceived as politically motivated, Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, in May 2019, signed into law a bill passed by the Kano State House of Assembly that created four new emirates: Bichi, Rano, Gaya, and Karaye. This legislation effectively reduced the jurisdiction of the existing Kano Emirate, limiting Emir Sanusi’s authority to 10 out of the 44 local government areas in the state. This restructuring was seen as an attempt to curtail Sanusi’s influence, given his frequent critiques of governmental policies. The tension culminated on March 9, 2020, when Sanusi was dethroned on charges of insubordination and alleged disrespect to lawful authorities, executed without adherence to due legal process.

In the face of his dethronement, Sanusi exhibited remarkable grace. He accepted his removal with equanimity, urging the populace to support his successor, Aminu Ado Bayero, thereby prioritizing the stability and unity of Kano over personal grievances. This act of humility underscored his recognition of the transient nature of power and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people.

The political landscape shifted dramatically in 2023 when the opposition, campaigning on a platform that included Sanusi’s reinstatement, won the gubernatorial elections. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, honoring his campaign promise, signed the Kano State Emirates Council (Repeal) Bill, 2024, on May 23, 2024, which abolished the previously created emirates and restored the traditional structure of the Kano Emirate. This legislative act reinstated Sanusi as the Emir of Kano, a move that was met with widespread acclaim from his supporters.

In stark contrast to Sanusi’s earlier display of humility, the dethroned Aminu Ado Bayero embarked on a legal crusade challenging the legitimacy of Sanusi’s reinstatement. His counsel, Aminu Babba Dan’Agundi, threatened legal action against Sanusi for contempt of court should he continue to present himself as the emir. This reaction highlighted a reluctance to relinquish power and an inclination towards political maneuvering, painting a vivid picture of two distinct approaches to leadership and authority.

This unfolding saga epitomizes a tale of two cities: one characterized by grace, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to truth; the other mired in power struggles, political scheming, and selective justice. The dichotomy raises pertinent questions about the sanctity of traditional institutions when subjected to incessant political interference. If the revered stool of the emir can be so easily entangled in the webs of political ambition, it beckons a critical examination of its role and relevance in contemporary governance.

As the judiciary navigates this intricate dispute, it stands at a crossroads, with its impartiality and integrity under scrutiny. The outcome will not only determine the fate of the Kano Emirate but also signal the judiciary’s resilience against becoming an instrument of political expediency. In this Nigerian rendition of a ‘Game of Thrones,’ the lessons are profound: power is ephemeral, integrity is enduring, and the true measure of leadership lies in one’s adherence to principles amidst adversity.

The political interference in royal affairs underscores the need for a system that preserves the sanctity of traditional institutions. Without such safeguards, the legitimacy and relevance of these institutions may be called into question. The judiciary’s role in this context is pivotal; its decisions will reflect on its independence and commitment to justice, free from political influence. The people perceive this as a contest between federal might and state authority, and it is imperative that the judiciary upholds its duty as an impartial arbiter, embodying the blind justice that serves all, irrespective of status or power.

The Kano emirate saga is a microcosm of the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s traditional and political institutions. It highlights the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to contemporary governance dynamics. The actions of individuals within this narrative serve as reminders that leadership, whether traditional or political, demands a commitment to integrity, humility, and the greater good.

Oludare, a Nigerian born medic living in the United States of America, writes from Texas. He is also the Convener, Social Rehabilitation Gruppe (SRG)