Confusion, tensions and unbridled rivalry are rising within the Kano Emirate as the two contending Emirs have appointed separate persons for the prestigious title of Galadiman Kano, following the recent death of Alhaji Abbas Sanusi.
The move highlights the ongoing power struggles within the Emirate, exacerbating the fractures that have marred the traditional institution in recent times.
The Kano Emirate Council, led by Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, officially appointed Alhaji Sanusi Ado Bayero as the new Galadiman Kano.
A letter dated April 21, 2025, and signed by Alhaji Awaisu Abbas Sanusi confirmed Emir Aminu’s approval of Sanusi Ado Bayero’s promotion from Wamban Kano to Galadiman Kano.
The letter stated, “The Emir, after careful consideration and in recognition of his loyalty and service, has approved the appointment of Alhaji Sanusi Ado Bayero as the new Galadiman Kano.”
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The official turbaning ceremony for Sanusi Ado Bayero is scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Emir’s palace in the Nasarawa Royal House.
However, in a parallel move, His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, has also made his own appointment to the same title.
On April 8, 2025, Sanusi II approved the elevation of Alhaji Mannir Sanusi, the District Head of Bichi, to the position of Galadiman Kano.
In an interview, Mannir Sanusi confirmed the appointment, saying, “Khalifa Sanusi II, after wide consultations with key stakeholders across the Emirate, graciously approved my appointment as the Galadiman Kano. It is a responsibility I accept with deep humility and a commitment to serve.”
Sources close to Khalifa Sanusi II have said the decision was made to preserve the historical lineage and values of the Emirate amidst ongoing leadership struggles.
This latest appointment deepens the rivalry between the two traditional authorities and underscores the increasing division within Kano’s royal institution.
The dual appointments come just weeks after the death of Alhaji Abbas Sanusi, the previous holder of the revered title, and they reflect a deepening power struggle over leadership in the Emirate.
Political analyst Dr. Kabiru Sulaiman commented, “The Emirate is clearly at a crossroads. What we are seeing is a battle for legitimacy, and it goes beyond titles—it’s about control over history, tradition, and the political soul of Kano.”
This latest chapter in the Kano Emirate’s internal strife follows the controversial dethronement of Sanusi II in 2020 and the subsequent restructuring of the Emirate, which has led to heightened tensions.
Analysts warn that the competing appointments could further escalate the already fraught situation, as both camps prepare for their respective turbaning ceremonies, signaling an ongoing contest for legitimacy and supremacy within Kano’s respected traditional institution.
With both appointments now confirmed, all eyes are on how the situation will evolve, as the once unified Emirate faces an uncertain future amidst the ongoing leadership struggles.
