Emirate tussle: Don’t be used to destablise Kano, CISLAC tells FG

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has cautioned the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government to resist any attempts by desperate politicians to disrupt the peace and harmony in Kano State.

Executive Director of CISLAC, Mallam Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, made the call on Saturday in a statement, warning against any attempts to exploit the situation to declare a state of emergency in Kano State.

This followed the tension and controversy heralding the deposition of 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and the rethrone of the formerly deposed 14th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II.

Rafsanjani expressed concern over the ongoing power tussle involving the two royals.

“The federal government must not allow itself to be used as a tool to further political interests that jeopardize the stability of the state and region.

“These developments threaten to plunge Kano State into chaos and anarchy, undermining the peace and stability of the broader Northern Nigeria region.

“Such actions are viewed as reckless and unnecessary provocations that could dismantle over 1,000 years of Kano’s political heritage,” Rafsanjani said.

He also expressed concern that the court ruling, which security operatives are relying on, facilitated the controversial return of Emir Aminu Bayero.

He noted that the said ruling was issued by a judge who is currently out of the country and not in office.

He said, “This situation raises significant concerns about the legitimacy and appropriateness of the court order. The reliance on what CISLAC describes as a ‘kangaroo court order’ to justify the police and other security operatives invasion of Kano State is deeply troubling and exacerbates tensions.”

He insisted that the state government holds the constitutional power to appoint and confirm traditional leaders, including the Emir.

He said, “The attempt to usurp this power and push the state into a state of anarchy is unacceptable. CISLAC firmly believes that the autonomy of the Kano State Government in managing its traditional institutions must be respected to avoid further conflict.”

He urged all relevant authorities to prioritize dialogue and lawful processes in resolving this crisis.

“Progress in Kano is synonymous with progress in Northern Nigeria. The current turmoil threatens to reverse the significant strides made towards development in the region.

“Concerned citizens and stakeholders must come together to preserve the integrity and progress of Kano State,” he added.

The CISLAC boss called for an immediate, peaceful resolution of the conflict and urged all parties to respect the rule of law and the rights of the Kano State Government.