By Aminu Garko
The ongoing imbroglio in Kano Emirate is desecrating the rich cultural heritage of Arewa, with the Northern Emirate system being the biggest loser. The system’s dignity is being decapitated, its aura eroded, and its traditional institutions belittled into pawns for politicians’ war of attrition. The Emirate system was once a revered institution, respected by colonial masters, and a stabilizing force in Northern Nigeria. However, the current tussle for the Emirship of Kano has reduced its grandeur, color, and influence to a comic relief amidst Nigeria’s economic hardship.
Kano’s excellence in trade, education, and traditional institutions is being tarnished by the Emirate tussles, which have a long history. The recent removal of Emir Sanusi by Governor Ganduje and the installation of Emir Aminu Ado, followed by the reinstatement of Emir Sanusi by the new government, has made the situation more complex. The Legislature and Judiciary’s roles have been ambiguous, generating controversy and encroaching on each other’s duties.
The National Judicial Commission must intervene to stop frivolous court cases and ensure that courts do not entertain matters they have no jurisdiction over. The APC and NNPP governments’ actions have shown that the Emirship is being used as a political tool, with each party installing their preferred Emir. This has led to a situation where the Northern Emirate system’s identity and heritage are being soiled, and the Judiciary and Legislature are being ridiculed.
The Kano Emirate crisis is an unnecessary distraction from the North’s troubles and should be allowed to rest. The Emiral system should be used to fight insecurity, not as a weapon for political vendetta.
