Tension continues to mount within the Kano Emirate as two rival Emirs have appointed different individuals to the prestigious title of Galadiman Kano, following the recent death of Alhaji Abbas Sanusi.
The development further exposes the deepening divisions within the traditional institution.
The Kano Emirate Council, under the leadership of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, officially appointed Alhaji Sanusi Ado Bayero as the new Galadiman Kano.
A letter dated April 21, 2025, 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 that the appointment was made in recognition of Sanusi Ado Bayero’s loyalty and dedicated service to the Emirate.
His turbaning ceremony is scheduled to take place on Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Emir’s palace in the Nasarawa Royal House.
In a parallel development, His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, has also appointed a separate candidate to the same title. On April 8, 2025, Sanusi II approved the elevation of Alhaji Mannir Sanusi, District Head of Bichi, as Galadiman Kano. In an interview, Mannir Sanusi expressed gratitude for the appointment, stating that Khalifa Sanusi II, after broad consultations with key stakeholders across the Emirate, had graciously approved his elevation. He pledged to carry out the responsibilities of the title with humility and dedication.
Sources close to Khalifa Sanusi II explained that the appointment aimed to preserve the historical values and lineage of the Emirate amid ongoing leadership struggles.
The competing appointments have deepened the rivalry between the two traditional leaders, highlighting the persistent divisions within Kano’s royal institution.
Political analyst Dr. Kabiru Sulaiman noted that the Emirate is facing a critical juncture, describing the situation as a battle for legitimacy that goes beyond titles to encompass control over Kano’s history, tradition, and political identity.
The dual appointments follow a series of events stemming from the controversial dethronement of Sanusi II in 2020 and the subsequent restructuring of the Emirate, which has fueled ongoing tensions.
Observers warn that the situation could escalate further as both factions prepare for their respective turbaning ceremonies.
The future of Kano’s once-unified Emirate remains uncertain as the struggle for legitimacy and supremacy intensifies.