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| Northern Elders Voice Concern Over Emir Dethronements |
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf dismissed all five emirs in the state on Thursday and reinstated the former CBN governor, Muhamamdu Sanusi.
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has called for caution among those involved in the dispute over the Kano Emirate.
In a statement, NEF's Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, emphasized the importance of considering the repercussions of their decisions.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf dismissed all five emirs in the state on Thursday and reinstated the former CBN governor, Muhamamdu Sanusi.
After a fallout in 2019, Sanusi was removed from his position by Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
The forum has voiced its alarm and deep unease regarding the events in Kano.
The NEF stated that these events are indicative of the broader challenges faced by traditional leaders in the nation.
The recent turmoil in the Kano Emirate has heightened public anxiety and concern, according to the NEF.
The statement declared, “Hasty and provocative actions and statements can only exacerbate the situation and threaten the peace and stability of the state.
Violence and discord will only deepen our divisions and obstruct any opportunity for a peaceful settlement of the current issues.
“The creation of additional Emirates in Kano is an overt effort to diminish the traditional institution and reduce the power of the emirs. The establishment of numerous emirates dilutes the power and sway of each traditional leader, allowing for easier political manipulation.
Moreover, the random removal and appointment of prominent traditional figures in Kano not only undermines their authority and credibility but also conveys that their societal roles are readily replaceable. This action poses a risk to the unity and integrity of the traditional framework and devalues the longstanding customs, values, and traditions that form the foundation of Nigerian society.
The ongoing issues mirror the broader trend of diminishing the role of traditional rulers in Nigeria. Historically, traditional leaders have been progressively marginalized and weakened by various administrative actions and so-called “reforms” that have only served to reduce their impact and render their positions ineffective”.
The NEF contends that to overcome these obstacles and rejuvenate Nigeria's traditional institutions, it is crucial to re-empower traditional leaders and acknowledge their significance.
This goal can be realized through a collective effort to reinstate the formal recognition of traditional leaders in the nation and equip them with the resources and authority needed to perform their responsibilities effectively.
“Lacking proper empowerment and support, traditional leaders will find it difficult to play a significant role in society, especially in tackling urgent issues like crime and substance abuse. Their marginalization not only limits their governance capabilities but also exposes them to political exploitation and influence,” stated the NEF.
