KANO, NIGERIA — Former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has clarified his position on the protracted Kano emirship dispute, asserting that the final resolution rests solely with the Supreme Court of Nigeria and the executive authority of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
In a statement released on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, through his Chief of Staff, Comrade Muhammad Garba, Ganduje debunked reports suggesting he had officially endorsed Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano. The clarification follows a widely publicised event where Ganduje addressed Sanusi by his traditional title during the swearing-in ceremony of the Deputy Governor.
Courtesy vs. Endorsement
Ganduje described the interaction as a matter of routine acknowledgment and protocol rather than a political shift. He explained that referring to Sanusi by his royal title was simply an expression of respect in a public gathering and should not be misconstrued as an official endorsement of his reinstatement.
As a former governor, Ganduje noted he lacks the constitutional authority to determine the legitimacy of any claimant to the throne, as the matter remains sub judice. He cautioned that public commentary must be handled carefully to avoid actions that could amount to contempt of court.
The Legal Position
The statement emphasised that the Court of Appeal had earlier directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the final determination of the case. Ganduje explained that the current legal position recognises Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir and Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 14th Emir, until the Supreme Court delivers its final judgment.
The Supreme Court is expected to deliver its ruling in April 2027. Ganduje regretted that sections of the media had unnecessarily amplified the issue, blowing a routine acknowledgment of established protocol out of proportion. He urged all parties to exercise restraint and await the final word from the judiciary.
Final Authority
The former governor reiterated that the matter rests entirely with the judiciary and will subsequently be given effect by the state government in line with the rule of law. For now, the political and traditional landscape in Kano remains in a state of flux as the legal process runs its course.
