KANO, Nigeria – Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, recently reinstated as the Emir of Kano, has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu chose not to obstruct his reinstatement by the Kano State government.
In an interview with a national television channel, Sanusi explained that President Tinubu resisted pressure to use federal authority to prevent his reinstatement and instead prioritised maintaining law and order in Kano State.
Sanusi was reinstated as Emir of Kano on Friday by Governor Abba Yusuf, following the signing of the new Kano Emirate Council Law 2024, which repealed the law established by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
Reflecting on the events leading to his reinstatement, Sanusi highlighted President Tinubu’s recognition of the issue as a local matter, thereby choosing not to interfere.
“As you know, I was appointed the 14th Emir of the single emirate of Kano in June 2014 and now I am reappointed as the Emir of the single emirate of Kano,” Sanusi stated.
“I would also like to express my thanks to His Excellency Alhaji Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, without whose principled stance of non-interference in the internal affairs of the state, this would not have been possible.”
Sanusi praised President Tinubu for respecting the constitution and the principle of separation of powers.
“The president has shown that he is a respecter of the constitution and the separation of powers. He recognizes that this is a purely local matter and that the government has a responsibility to do what is right for the state. I’m aware that he has resisted all pressure to get the federal government to be involved,” he said.
Sanusi emphasized that President Tinubu’s decision was informed by security assessments indicating no major crisis would result from his reinstatement.
The president ensured that security forces were on standby to maintain order, but refrained from direct intervention.
Political observers suggest that the reinstatement of Sanusi, along with ongoing internal conflicts within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and pending legal issues, may challenge the position of the APC chairman.
The return of Sanusi and the political dynamics in Kano State indicate potential shifts in the political landscape, with increased scrutiny on the stability of the APC leadership.
Sanusi views his reinstatement as a continuation of his service and an opportunity to build on his previous tenure.
He remains committed to fulfilling his role for the betterment of Kano State, with the support of both state and federal authorities in ensuring a smooth transition.
