The Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi, has appealed to residents of the city to be law-abiding and avoid actions that could incite unrest.
He also issued a stern warning to those opposing his reinstallation as emir, declaring that fire would consume anyone attempting to disrupt peace in the city.
In a voice message in Hausa shared by Premier Radio on Facebook on Monday, March 24, Sanusi described those challenging his emirship as going against the will of God, asserting that such individuals would not fare well in the end. He urged the people of Kano to remain patient and prayerful, emphasizing that the conflict over the emirate was not about him personally but about divine destiny.
“We are calling on the people to be law-abiding citizens. This war (Emirate Tussle) is not targeted at me; they are fighting what God has destined to happen. God doesn’t need anyone’s support. I am pleading with you to be patient and prayerful. God will continue to support those who are fair and just,” Mr. Sanusi stated.
He added a powerful curse, saying, “Fire will consume anyone who is planning to set fire in Kano. May he never witness peace in his life. May Allah protect our country and our lives. Insha’Allah, whoever is challenging God’s decision will not end well.”
The statement from Mr Sanusi appears to be linked to rising tensions following a directive from Governor Abba Yusuf, instructing the state’s emirate councils to begin preparations for the Sallah durbar procession. This development sparked further conflict, as Mr. Sanusi’s rival, Aminu Ado Bayero, also announced plans for a durbar, coinciding with his fifth anniversary as Emir of Kano.
In a letter to security agencies, Mr Ado Bayero’s private secretary, Abdullahi Kwaru, stated that the durbar would be conducted peacefully and informed the authorities of the planned event, which would also mark the fifth anniversary of Ado Bayero’s reign.
This clash between the two men follows the state government’s decision last May to remove Ado Bayero and reinstate Mr. Sanusi as emir under a new emirates law. Ado Bayero is challenging his removal in court, with the two rivals now occupying separate palaces in the city as they each claim the title of Emir of Kano.
