The Northern Elders Forum has said the ongoing struggle for power in the Kano Emirate is an indication that traditional rulers are easily dispensable in Nigeria.
In a press statement issued by Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, NEF Director of Publicity and Advocacy, on Friday, the group expressed worry about recent events in Kano following the abolishment of emirates and sacking of emirs.
NEF described it as a clear example of the struggles faced by traditional rulers in the country.
SaharaReporters reported on Thursday how Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf officially approved the reappointment of former Central Bank Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, as the Emir of Kano.
This announcement came after the government enacted a law, ‘The Kano State Emirates Councils (Repeal) Bill, 2024’ to dethrone the Emir of Kano and four others appointed by Abdullahi Ganduje’s government in 2020.
Reacting to this, the northern elders said the development had raised tension and concerns among the public in Kano.
The group said: “As responsible citizens, we urge the government of Kano state and politicians involved to exercise caution in handling this sensitive issue in order to prevent further escalation of tensions.
“It is important for all parties involved to approach this matter with the utmost care and professionalism, keeping in mind the potential consequences of their actions. Rash decisions and inflammatory statements can only serve to worsen the situation and jeopardize the peace and stability of the state.
“We also call upon the public to remain calm and law-abiding in the face of this crisis. It is crucial that we do not engage in any actions that could potentially threaten the peace and security of the state. Violence and unrest will only serve to further divide us and hinder any chance of finding a peaceful resolution to the current situation.
“In times of crisis, it is imperative that we come together as a community and work towards finding common ground and mutual understanding. Let us all strive to prioritize peace and harmony, and avoid actions that could lead to further discord and conflict.”
The NEF however noted that the traditional institution in Nigeria has long been facing challenges and obstacles that have rendered it weak and ineffective. The power struggle led to the creation of multiple emirates in Kano, thereby diluting the authority and influence of the Emir of Kano.
It said, “The multiplication and duplicity of emirates in Kano is a clear attempt to weaken the traditional institution and undermine the authority of the traditional rulers.
“By creating multiple emirates, the power and influence of individual traditional rulers are diluted, making it easier for politicians to control and manipulate them.
“Furthermore, the arbitrary dethronement and replacement of high-ranking traditional rulers in Kano not only weaken the authority and legitimacy of traditional rulers but also send a message that their role and relevance in society are easily dispensable.
“This move is not only threatening the unity and cohesion of the traditional structure but also undermining the centuries-old customs, values, and traditions that have been the bedrock of the Nigerian society.
“The perpetuation of these challenges is a reflection of the wider issue of the emasculation of traditional rulers in Nigeria. Over the years, traditional rulers have been systematically sidelined and disempowered by various administrative mechanisms and so-called ‘reforms’ that have only served to weaken their influence and render their role ineffectual.
“In order to address these challenges and reinvigorate the traditional institution in Nigeria, it is imperative that traditional rulers be re-empowered and given the recognition and support they deserve. This can only be achieved through a concerted effort to restore the statutory recognition of traditional rulers in the country and provide them with the necessary resources and authority to fulfil their duties effectively.
“Without the necessary empowerment and support, traditional rulers will continue to struggle to play a meaningful role in society, particularly in addressing pressing issues such as crime and drug abuse. Their marginalization not only diminishes their ability to effectively govern their domains but also leaves them vulnerable to political interference and manipulation.”
