Governor Yusuf Inaugurates Reconstituted Kano Council of Emirs, Restores Sanusi II as Chairman
Governor Yusuf Inaugurates Reconstituted Kano Council of Emirs, Restores Sanusi II as Chairman
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Monday inaugurated the reconstituted Kano Council of Emirs, reinstating Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II as its chairman. The new council also includes the Emirs of Gaya, Karaye, and Rano as members. The ceremony took place at the Coronation Hall, Government House, and was confirmed in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa.
The inauguration follows Governor Yusuf’s signing of the Kano Emirates Council Law (Repeal Bill) 2024, which abolished the four emirates—Bichi, Rano, Gaya, and Karaye—created under former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, effectively restoring the historic, unified structure of the Kano Emirate.
Addressing the gathering, Yusuf described the council as central to promoting peace, stability, and development in the state. “The traditional institution is a pillar of history, custodian of heritage, guardian of values, and an indispensable partner in governance,” he said. “This council will provide a forum for our royal fathers to deliberate and offer counsel on matters affecting the well-being of our people.”
Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo expressed optimism that the operational council would significantly contribute to Kano’s socio-economic development. Earlier, Prof. Tijjani Naniya, Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs, traced the history of the Kano Emirate and its ties with the Rano, Gaya, and Karaye Emirates, noting that Yusuf’s action restored a centuries-old unified structure under the Emir of Kano.
Speaking for the member Emirs, Sanusi II hailed the restoration and inauguration as timely and aligned with historical precedence. He commended Governor Yusuf’s achievements and pledged the council’s commitment to the state’s progress.
The Kano Emirate had been divided in 2019 under Ganduje, creating five emirates and reducing the powers of then-Emir Sanusi II, who was later dethroned and exiled in 2020.
Yusuf’s 2024 repeal law reversed these changes, paving the way for Sanusi’s reinstatement. However, a dispute continues as Aminu Ado Bayero, formerly appointed Emir of Kano after Sanusi’s removal, has refused to step down, leaving both claiming the throne.
