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| Sunusi Lamido Sunusi |
On Thursday, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State proclaimed Sanusi as the reinstated Emir of Kano.
Muhammadu Sanusi II, the reinstated Emir and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, is known for his unique combination of traditional leadership and forward-thinking.
On Thursday, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State proclaimed Sanusi as the reinstated Emir of Kano.
The announcement was made following the signing of the new emirate council legislation at the Government House in Kano.
The governor executed the law in the company of his deputy, the Speaker of the State Assembly, and other senior government officials.
Ex-Governor Abdullahi Ganduje had previously removed Sanusi from the throne in 2020 due to a personal dispute.
Sanusi's life post-deposition has continued to attract public attention.
Below are seven significant events from Sanusi's life after his time as Emir.
1. Exile to Loko
Sanusi was exiled to Loko, a secluded village in Nasarawa State, by the Kano State government after his dethronement, a decision perceived by many as politically charged.
Sanusi maintained his composure during his exile in Loko, using the time for introspection and future planning.
The banishment's legality was heavily debated, with many viewing it as a violation of his basic rights.
A court eventually ruled his detention unlawful, leading to his release.
2. Academic Endeavors at Oxford
Sanusi took up a fellowship at the University of Oxford following his release.
He joined the African Studies Centre at St. Antony’s College as a visiting scholar.
This role at Oxford allowed him to participate in scholarly discussions, research, and teaching, further establishing his influence as a thought leader beyond traditional governance.
3. Challenging the 'Former Emir' Designation
Sanusi contested being labeled as the "former emir" after his removal.
He maintained that, according to Kano's traditions and customs, an emir retains the title for life, despite any deposition.
This stance was expressed in 2021 in Kaduna State when Muhammad Sani “Dattijo” Abdullahi, then Chief of Staff to Governor El-Rufai, referred to him as the "former Emir of Kano" at the Kaduna Investment Summit.
Sanusi responded by publicly correcting Abdullahi, rejecting the "former emir" label and implying repercussions for the chief of staff.
Sanusi's reaction revealed his sensitivity to the designation.
4. Declining Presidential Ambitions
Amid speculations of Sanusi's potential candidacy in the 2023 Presidential election, he clarified his disinterest in political office during an event in Abeokuta, Ogun State, celebrating the 80th birthday of Chief Tayo Sowunmi, Babanla Adinni of Egbaland.
He emphasized the significance of his roles as a traditional and religious leader, stating they could be more impactful than the presidency.
Sanusi expressed gratitude for his positions as Emir of Kano and Khalifa of Tijaniyyaa, valuing the traditional-religious authority they provided.
5. Engaging with Niger's Military Regime
Following a military coup in Niger, Sanusi was among the few welcomed for dialogue by the junta, which had closed doors to negotiations with others.
Post-discussion, Sanusi highlighted the importance of collective involvement in resolving Niger's crisis, advocating for public diplomacy and a solution beneficial to Africa, Niger, Nigeria, and humanity.
He shared these views with journalists after briefing President Bola Tinubu.
6. Ascension as Khalifa
A defining moment for Sanusi outside the throne was his appointment as the leader of Nigeria's Tijjaniyya Islamic Movement in 2021.
The sect's Supreme Leader, Mahi Nyass, confirmed Sanusi's role during his visit to the movement's global headquarters in Senegal.
Nyass entrusted Sanusi with uniting the sect's members in Nigeria and leading with piety.
Before Sanusi's appointment, the position had been vacant since the passing of Isyaku Rabiu in 2018, who had succeeded Sanusi's grandfather, a former Emir of Kano and the sect's inaugural leader in Nigeria.
7. Grieving Herbert Wigwe
Sanusi publicly expressed his sorrow over the passing of Herbert Wigwe, his close friend and the ex-CEO of Access Bank.
In a heartfelt homage, Sanusi praised Wigwe's visionary leadership and brotherhood, acknowledging his significant influence on both Sanusi's life and the banking sector.
A video snippet of Sanusi's tearful speech circulated widely, showcasing the more vulnerable side of a figure often perceived as stern and resolute.
