The Arewa Youth in Enugu State have strongly criticized the Emir of the Enugu Hausa Emirate Council, Alhaji Yusuf Sambo II, for accepting a political appointment from the Enugu State Governor. The Emir was recently named Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor, a move announced on May 2, which has sparked outrage within the northern community in the state.
In a statement issued by their leader, Hamza Buba Ganye, the youth group described the Emir’s acceptance of the position as a major setback for the Hausa community in Enugu. According to them, the decision compromises the traditional role and authority of the Emir, raising concerns about the independence and dignity of the Emirate Council.
“His appointment undermines the traditional authority and independence of the Emirate Council. It sends a wrong signal to the community and compromises the Emir’s ability to represent the interests of his people,” Ganye stated.
He further said the Emir’s new political role could divide the community and make the traditional ruler appear partisan. “We expected more from our leaders,” he added.
The group warned that the controversy surrounding the appointment could have long-term consequences, and called on prominent northern groups such as the Northern Elders Forum, the Coalition of Northern Groups, and the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum to intervene.
Ganye described the development as a “deliberate attempt to control the Hausa community in Enugu and politically destabilise it,” urging stakeholders to speak out and demand a review of the appointment. The Emir is yet to publicly respond to the criticisms.