There are growing indications that the prolonged emirship crisis in Kano City may soon be resolved, following renewed efforts by the state government to bring an end to the leadership tussle through dialogue and mutual understanding.
The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, gave the assurance on Thursday while briefing journalists in Kano, expressing optimism that the dispute would be settled amicably in the interest of peace and unity in the state.
According to Waiya, ongoing consultations and behind-the-scenes engagements have raised hopes that one of the contenders may voluntarily step down for the other, paving the way for lasting reconciliation within the Kano Emirate Council.
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He noted that the state government remains committed to ensuring that the crisis, which has polarised opinions and attracted national attention, is resolved peacefully without further escalation.
“All these problems will be resolved amicably. Some of the parties may, on their own, decide to step down for the other because they now see themselves as one family and are ready to place Kano above personal interests,” Waiya said.
He added that issues that cannot be resolved through voluntary concessions would be addressed through constructive dialogue and mutual understanding, stressing that peace and stability in Kano remain the government’s top priority.
The emirship tussle, which has lingered for months, involves Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II (Sanusi Lamido Sanusi) and Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, both of whom are laying claim to the Kano emirship.
The crisis dates back to the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who in 2020 deposed Emir Sanusi and replaced him with Aminu Ado Bayero following a series of disagreements between the government and the traditional ruler.
However, the controversy resurfaced under the current administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who earlier this year removed Emir Bayero and reinstated Sanusi as the 16th Emir of Kano, a move that reignited legal and political disputes surrounding the emirate.
Following the developments, the matter was taken to court, where it is currently pending, further complicating efforts to restore normalcy to the historic institution.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, the state government has continued to explore peaceful options to resolve the dispute, emphasising that traditional institutions must remain symbols of unity rather than division.
Observers believe that a negotiated settlement could help restore stability, preserve the dignity of the emirate and refocus attention on governance and development in Kano State.
