Rabiu Kwankwaso, the Presidential Candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 General Elections and the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, has clarified that he did not influence the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano.
Sanusi, who was appointed Emir by Kwankwaso in 2014, was removed from the position in 2020. Following the NNPP’s victory in the 2023 governorship election, Kwankwaso had indicated that Sanusi’s removal would be reviewed.
On Thursday, the Kano House of Assembly repealed the Emirate Council Law, which facilitated Sanusi’s reinstatement. However, in an interview with the BBC, Kwankwaso asserted, “I plan to visit Kano soon to discuss the matter with some assembly members, particularly the speaker, and the Governor. I have refrained from interfering in their decisions. We are still collaborating with the Governor. Our role is merely advisory, and if not solicited, we remain silent as long as things are proceeding positively.”
When asked about his previous comments regarding the review of Sanusi’s dethronement, Kwankwaso explained, “When I mentioned reviewing the case, I didn’t specify the course of action. I merely indicated that it would be reconsidered… Once I’m there, I’ll gather information about the situation. Whatever they disclose, we will support. I understand the Assembly has repealed the law.”
Addressing concerns about political interference in the emirate’s affairs, Kwankwaso noted, “Those speculating about tenure-based appointments have a point, but who initiated this trend? When I assumed office again in 2011, it was common knowledge that the late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, favoured Shekarau over us. Despite this, we didn’t contemplate removing him from his position. That’s why we advocate for everyone to stay within their respective roles.”
Kwankwaso’s statements aim to distance himself from direct involvement in Sanusi’s reinstatement, emphasizing the importance of respecting institutional roles and the decisions of the Kano House of Assembly and the Governor.