Former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso has made a definitive statement regarding the ongoing emirship tussle in Kano, declaring that Muhammadu Sanusi II remains the only constitutionally recognized Emir of Kano.
Kwankwaso's Declaration at University Convocation
The prominent political figure made this assertion while speaking at the fourth convocation ceremony of Skyline University of Nigeria in Kano on Saturday, November 16, 2025. Kwankwaso, who served as the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party in the 2023 elections, emphasized that any other emir installed from outside the state lacks legitimacy in the eyes of both the people and the state government.
During his address, the former governor praised the university management for their commitment to quality education and congratulated the graduating students. He notably highlighted that over 60% of the graduating students were female, using the occasion to urge young men to take their studies more seriously, warning that failure to do so would result in women taking leading roles in national development.
The Ongoing Emirship Controversy
The emirship dispute in Kano has been a source of significant tension since Muhammadu Sanusi II was deposed during the administration of the All Progressives Congress in the state. Following the party's defeat in the 2023 elections, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Sanusi while deposing Aminu Ado Bayero, who had been installed by the previous APC government.
However, Bayero has challenged his removal in court, where rulings have maintained that the status quo should be preserved. This legal battle has resulted in both figures claiming rights to the traditional throne, creating instability in the northwest state's traditional leadership structure.
Kwankwaso specifically addressed this controversy during his speech, stating: "Muhammadu Sanusi II is the only emir in Kano who has been recognized by the people and the government of Kano State."
Security Concerns and Political Implications
Beyond the emirship dispute, Kwankwaso also commented on security challenges affecting the region. He expressed alarm about groups operating from Katsina and launching attacks on border communities including Shanono, Karaye, Gwarzo, and Tsanyawa.
The political implications of this declaration are significant, given Kwankwaso's status as a 2027 presidential hopeful and his influential position in Kano politics. The emirship controversy has already led to tensions among supporters of both royal claimants, prompting police intervention and the cancellation of traditional events to maintain peace in the state.
The situation remains fluid as legal proceedings continue and political figures like Kwankwaso take public positions on the matter, highlighting the complex intersection of traditional authority, political power, and constitutional recognition in Nigeria's northern states.
