The Kano State Government has expressed optimism that the long-running dispute over the Kano Emirship will soon be resolved, raising hopes of an end to nearly two years of tension and uncertainty in the state.
The assurance was given by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, during a radio programme aired in Kano. According to him, recent political developments, especially Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), have created a new environment that will make it easier to settle the crisis.
“I assure you that very soon, the Kano government will resolve the dispute over the Kano Emirate, because we are now one,” Waiya said.
The emirship tussle has been one of the most sensitive and controversial issues in Kano State in recent times. It has divided opinions, strained relationships and raised concerns about peace and stability in the ancient city, which is regarded as one of the most important traditional centres in northern Nigeria.
The Kano Emirship crisis began after a series of political and legal developments that led to the emergence of two emirs laying claim to the throne.
Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, was dethroned in 2020 under the previous state administration. His removal followed disagreements between him and the then government.
After his removal, Aminu Ado Bayero was appointed as the new Emir of Kano. However, the situation changed again following the return of Abba Kabir Yusuf as governor in 2023.
Subsequently, Emir Sanusi II was reinstated by the state government, while Emir Ado Bayero continued to lay claim to the throne. This led to a situation where Kano effectively had two emirs.
For nearly two years, Emir Sanusi II has been operating from the main Gidan Rumfa palace, the traditional seat of the Kano Emirate, while Emir Ado Bayero has remained at the Nassarawa mini-palace.
This unusual arrangement has created confusion and tension, with supporters of both sides holding firmly to their positions.
Speaking on the matter, Waiya suggested that reconciliation and compromise may be part of the solution. He hinted that the contenders themselves might play a role in resolving the crisis.
“It is possible that some will step down from the throne on their own, or others will seek reconciliation because a mutual understanding has been reached,” he said.
He stressed that the state government is committed to dialogue and consultation with all relevant stakeholders, including traditional leaders, elders and political actors.
According to him, the administration will not allow the emirship issue to threaten peace or distract it from governance.
“Our approach is guided by respect for the rule of law, traditional institutions, and the collective interests of the people of Kano State,” Waiya said.
The commissioner also linked the prospects of resolving the emirship dispute to Governor Yusuf’s recent defection to the APC, the ruling party at the federal level.
He explained that the political alignment between Kano State and the Federal Government has removed major obstacles that previously stood in the way of a peaceful settlement.
Speaking on Muhasa, a popular local radio station in Kano, Waiya said the “unification” of political interests at both state and federal levels would help calm tensions and encourage compromise.
According to him, the new political reality creates room for cooperation, dialogue and support from the centre.
Waiya also spoke on the governor’s decision to defect to the APC, describing it as a move that would bring major benefits to Kano State.
“The defection opens more doors for Kano,” he said.
“With stronger collaboration with the Federal Government, we expect more support in critical sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, and social welfare.”
He added that the state stands to gain more federal attention and resources, which would help speed up development projects and improve the lives of residents.
Despite the political changes, the commissioner stressed that the Yusuf administration remains focused on its development goals.
He described the government’s approach as a “Kano First” agenda, where the interests of the state come before personal, political or factional interests.
“Our priority is Kano,” Waiya said.
“Anyone whose interest collides with that objective will not be allowed to slow down governance.”
He said the government has already put concrete measures in place to restore lasting peace and stability in the state, noting that the emirship dispute is one of the key issues being addressed.
The prolonged Emirship tussle has been a source of concern for many residents of Kano. The emirate system holds deep cultural, religious and historical significance, and any dispute involving the throne naturally attracts strong emotions.
Some residents have worried that the continued standoff could lead to unrest or deepen divisions within the state. Others have called for restraint and dialogue, urging all parties to put the interest of Kano above personal ambitions.
Business owners and community leaders have also expressed concern that prolonged tension could affect economic activities and social harmony in the city.
Traditional institutions play a major role in maintaining peace and social order in many parts of northern Nigeria. The Kano Emirate, in particular, has existed for centuries and commands respect far beyond the state.
Waiya said the government understands this responsibility and is determined to handle the matter carefully.
Although the government has not given a specific timeline or detailed plan for resolving the dispute, the commissioner’s comments have raised expectations that a breakthrough may be near.
For now, residents are watching closely to see how events unfold. Many hope that the promise of a resolution will translate into concrete action that finally brings an end to the “two emirs” situation.
As Kano State continues its push for development and stability, the resolution of the emirship tussle is seen as a key step towards restoring unity and focus.