The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has issued a stern warning to traditional title holders under his domain.
The monarch declared that anyone found guilty of beating their wives would lose their title.
He made this pronouncement on Monday at Bayero University, Kano (BUK).
Sanusi was speaking during the 2024 National Dialogue on the Role of Islamic Opinion Leaders in Preventing Gender-Based Violence in Northern Nigeria.
The Emir expressed outrage over the alarming cases of violence against women in the region.
Sanusi revealed shocking details of injuries inflicted on women by their husbands.
“Some women are left with broken teeth and damaged jaws from beatings,” he lamented.
He described such acts as barbaric and unacceptable in any society.
Calls to Repeal Harmful Laws
The monarch also called for the repeal of section 55 of the Nigerian Penal Code.
This section permits husbands to “correct” their wives within lawful customs.
Sanusi argued that the law is often abused in Northern Nigeria.
“Husbands that beat wives for any reason are being animalistic,” the Emir declared.
He urged the government to criminalize domestic violence.
“It should be prohibited,” he said emphatically.
Research Exposes Disturbing Trends
Sanusi referenced a study conducted across nine Shari’a courts in Kano.
The research found that 45 percent of the cases involved gender-based violence.
These findings, he noted, highlight the urgent need for societal change.
“When my daughters are getting married, I mostly tell their husbands, if you don’t like them anymore, send them back to me, don’t beat them,” he said.
He further warned traditional title holders in his jurisdiction to set an example.
“If you beat your wife, you lose your title,” Sanusi declared firmly.
Islamic Family Laws as a Solution
The Emir called for Nigeria to adopt family laws from Islamic countries.
He praised these laws for prohibiting domestic violence.
Sanusi emphasized that marriage should be rooted in love, mercy, and mutual respect.
“These are the principles we must uphold to protect women and strengthen families,” he said.
Experts Join the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
Dr. Taofeek Abubakar Hussein, Director of the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue at BUK, spoke at the event.
He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to combating gender-based violence.
Dr. Hassan Karofi, Director of Partnership and Strategic Communications at the Development Research and Projects Centre, also addressed the gathering.
He highlighted the dialogue as part of the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.”
The event, he explained, focused on leveraging Islamic teachings and community collaboration to end abuse.
A Call to Action
Sanusi’s strong words are a rallying cry for reform in Northern Nigeria.
His stance is clear: no one is above accountability, not even title holders.
With alarming cases of gender-based violence on the rise, his call for action resonates deeply.
The Emir’s message to the government, traditional leaders, and society is unambiguous.
“Stop the violence, respect women, and create laws that protect them,” he said.
