In the heart of Nigeria’s cultural landscape lies the venerable Kano Emirate, an institution steeped in tradition and history. Yet, recent events have exposed a troubling trend that threatens its very existence – the politicization of a sacred institution. The battles that rage in Kano State are not mere clashes between individuals or political parties; they represent a fundamental assault on the autonomy and integrity of the Kano Emirate itself.
Since 2019, the saga unfolding in Kano has been one of relentless power struggles and political maneuvering. With each twist and turn, the emirate has found itself caught in the crossfire of competing interests, its fate dictated by the whims of politicians rather than the principles of tradition and justice.
At the heart of this crisis is a glaring reality that many commentators overlook – the battle is not between HRH Muhammadu Sanusi and HRH Ado Bayero, nor is it between former Governor Ganduje and Governor Abba. It is a battle for the very soul of the Kano Emirate, a struggle to preserve its independence and shield it from the unashamed bashing of opportunistic politicians.
The removal of HRH Muhammadu Sanusi in 2019 sent shockwaves through the emirate, exposing the vulnerability of traditional institutions to political machinations. While his ousting may have been cloaked in legality, the underlying motives reeked of bad faith and vindictiveness, tarnishing the sanctity of the emirate in the process.
Similarly, the recent removal of HRH Ado Bayero serves as yet another grim reminder of the erosion of institutional integrity in Kano. Despite his revered status and contributions to the emirate, his appointment and subsequent removal were marred by political intrigue and manipulation, further undermining the credibility of the institution.
What is perhaps most troubling is the complicity of legal frameworks in facilitating this decay. Governors, past and present, have exploited the letter of the law to serve their own interests, enacting changes to suit their desires and solidify their grip on power. While their actions may be technically legal, they betray a blatant disregard for the spirit of justice and the principles upon which institutions are built.
Institutions, however, are not mere structures – they are reflections of the values and practices upheld by those who steward them. True leaders recognize the importance of nurturing and safeguarding institutions, ensuring they remain resilient in the face of external pressures. The decay of the Kano Emirate serves as a stark reminder of the consequences when leadership fails to uphold these principles, sacrificing tradition and autonomy at the altar of political expediency.
For HRH Muhammadu Sanusi, the return to the emirate may offer a semblance of redemption, but it comes at a cost. How can one speak truth to power when power itself is the oppressor? The struggle for the Kano Emirate is not just a battle for supremacy – it is a battle for the preservation of tradition, integrity, and autonomy in the face of relentless political encroachment.
The decay of the Kano Emirate is a symptom of a larger ailment plaguing Nigerian society – the subjugation of tradition to the whims of politics. If we are to preserve the integrity of our institutions and safeguard our cultural heritage, we must remain vigilant against the insidious influence of political opportunism. The battle for the Kano Emirate is far from over, but it is a battle worth fighting for the sake of preserving our collective identity and heritage.
Abu can be reached via danjumaabu3750@gmail.com or +2348062380296
