KANO — The Emir of Kano, HRH Alh. Dr. Muhammadu Sanusi II, has delivered a powerful directive against gender-based violence, asserting that no cultural or traditional practice justifies the physical abuse of women in Nigeria.
Speaking at a recent forum on social reform, the influential monarch and economist reminded citizens that women are first and foremost Nigerian citizens protected by the constitution, regardless of local customs or personal beliefs.
Constitutional Rights Over Cultural Myths
Emir Sanusi, known for his progressive stance on social issues, emphasized that human rights are not subordinate to traditional interpretations of marriage or discipline:
- Protection of Citizens: “You cannot beat a woman because your culture says you can beat her; she’s a Nigerian citizen entitled to protection, it doesn’t matter what you think,” the Emir declared.
- Legal Supremacy: He reiterated that the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) and other national statutes override any customary claim to domestic “correction” through violence.
A Call for Social Reform
The Emir’s statement is part of his broader advocacy for comprehensive social reforms in the North, focusing on:
- Education for Girls: Sanusi has consistently argued that the region’s high poverty and insecurity are linked to the marginalisation of women and the lack of formal education.
- Marriage Laws: He has previously called for legislation to curb child marriage and polygamy among those who cannot financially support large families—a stance that has made him both a revered reformer and a controversial figure among conservatives.
Inter-Regional Context
The Emir’s comments arrive at a time of heightened national sensitivity regarding the status of citizens’ rights. His focus on the rule of law mirrors recent legal debates in Abuja, where figures like former AGF Abubakar Malami are facing trial, and in Lagos, where the government has banned unauthorized traditional titles to maintain the state’s legal order.
By framing domestic violence as a violation of Nigerian citizenship, Sanusi is attempting to bridge the gap between traditional leadership and modern democratic accountability.
