Former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Tuesday publicly recognised Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Chiefs, marking a significant shift in their long-standing rift.
The former governor made the remark during the swearing-in ceremony of the new Deputy Governor of the state, Murtala Sule Garo, held at the Government House in Kano.
Ganduje, while addressing dignitaries at the event, formally greeted Sanusi using his full traditional title, a move that drew loud applause from attendees and signalled a notable change in tone between the two prominent figures.
Tuesday’s development is widely seen as the first time Ganduje has openly acknowledged Sanusi in his reinstated role since their highly publicised fallout.
Sanusi was removed from the throne in 2020 by Ganduje during his tenure as governor, a decision that stirred controversy across the state and beyond.
However, his successor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, later reinstated Sanusi as Emir, replacing Aminu Ado Bayero, who had been installed following Sanusi’s removal.
Despite the reinstatement, Bayero resisted stepping aside, amid claims of backing from powerful political interests, including allies of the former administration.
The situation has remained a subject of political and traditional tension in Kano, though recent developments suggest a possible easing of hostilities.
Observers note that the atmosphere appears to be shifting, particularly following Governor Yusuf’s recent political realignment and the resumption of key traditional activities such as the Sallah Durbar, which Sanusi has been allowed to lead after previous restrictions linked to security concerns.
The latest gesture by Ganduje is expected to further influence the evolving dynamics within Kano’s traditional institution and political landscape.