Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has ordered the emirs of Bichi, Gaya, Rano, and Karaye to vacate their palaces within 48 hours following their dismissal by the Kano House of Assembly on Thursday. This decision comes after the assembly repealed the Kano Emirates Council Law 2019, establishing these emirates.
During a press briefing, Governor Yusuf announced the reinstatement of the former Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, who former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje dethroned.
“The governor has signed the Emirate Repeal Law 2024, dissolving the five emirate councils created by the previous administration,” the press statement revealed.
The Kano Assembly’s move to repeal the law was executed under tight security and led by Speaker Jibril Falgore. Deputy Speaker Muhammad Butu-Butu stated that the repeal aims to restore Kano’s lost glory, arguing that dividing the Kano Emirate into five reduced its capacity and dignity. Majority Leader Lawan Hussaini supported this view, emphasising that the additional emirates distorted the cultural heritage of Kano.
However, opposition members, led by Minority Whip Ayuba Labaran (Kabo-APC), opposed the repeal, claiming selfish interests drove it. Labaran argued that creating the emirates under Ganduje’s administration fostered unity and development, bringing socio-economic benefits to the region. Despite this opposition, the assembly proceeded with the repeal.
Governor Yusuf also called for peace and harmony during this transition period. He instructed the deposed emirs to hand over all official items to the Deputy Governor, who also serves as the Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs. Sanusi II is expected to make a grand return to Kano on Friday.