By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Abuja
Former Kano State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has stated that the ongoing dispute surrounding the Kano Emirship will ultimately be determined by the Supreme Court.
Ganduje stated this in an interview with ‘The Historica Nigeria’ in Abuja on Thursday, following reactions that trailed his recent public acknowledgment of Muhammadu Sanusi II during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Deputy Governor of Kano State held at the Government House on Tuesday.
At the event, the former governor addressed Sanusi as the Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Chiefs, a development that attracted applause from dignitaries and political stakeholders in attendance.
However, Ganduje clarified that his remarks at the occasion should not be interpreted as political or legal endorsement of any claimant to the Kano Emirship throne.
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According to him, the gesture was merely an expression of respect and courtesy in a public gathering, stressing that the matter remains before the apex court for final determination.
“It is important to clarify that what happened was simply an expression of respect in a public gathering. It should not be misconstrued as an endorsement,” Ganduje said.
The former governor further noted that the existing legal position currently recognises Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano, while Muhammadu Sanusi II is recognised as the 14th Emir, pending the final verdict of the Supreme Court.
“The interpretation being given to the remark is clearly exaggerated. All parties should exercise restraint and await the Supreme Court judgment expected next year,” he added.
The Kano Emirship tussle dates back to March 2020 when Ganduje, as governor, dethroned Sanusi over allegations bordering on insubordination and disrespect to constituted authority before appointing Aminu Ado Bayero as Emir of Kano.
In May 2024, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Sanusi as Emir following the repeal of the Kano Emirates law, a move that reignited legal and political controversies surrounding the traditional institution.
The development subsequently led to a fresh legal battle, with Aminu Ado Bayero challenging his removal in court. The Supreme Court recently adjourned hearing on the matter to April 2027.
Ganduje reiterated that he has no constitutional or legal authority to determine the outcome of the emirship dispute, insisting that only the judiciary can give a final and binding decision on the matter.