EMIRATE UPDATE: Calm is gradually returning to city of Kano after tensions

By KEMI KASUMU

Calm is gradually returning to the city of Kano following the tensions over the throne of Emir of Kano even as Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II enters the 6th day of his reinstatement.

While the Sunusi camp insists he is the rightful Emir, having been reappointed by Gov. Abba Yusuf, a Federal High Court sitting in Kano issued an order countering his reinstatement until a suit challenging it was resolved.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that more District Heads and members of the Tijjaniyya Shura Council, a council of Islamic Sect, have affirmed their loyalty to him.

Other prominent individuals such as Khalifa Sayyadi Bashir, Khalifa Abdullahi Uwaisu, Sheikh Ibrahim Shehu Maihula and Barrister Habibu Dan Almajiri, have also endorsed Sunusi, whose claim to the throne is being challenged in the court.

During his initial court session on Sunday, Emir Sunusi, whose Emirship is considered illegal by the Emir Aminu Ado Bayaro camp, received the fealty of 40 District Heads and prominent individuals within the council.

NAN who monitored the situation in Kano on Thursday observed that many residents of the city were going about their normal activities.

Although security agents were seen at the Emir’s Palace and guest house where Bayero is currently staying, the residents of the city seem undisturbed by their presence.

Alhaji Kabiru Abubakar of Dakata Quarters said most of Kano residents were more concerned about their livelihoods than who becomes the Emir of Kano.

He expressed confidence in the political and religious leaders in the state to resolve the matter very soon.

Hajiya Aishatu Danlami of Brigade Quarters commended the state government for banning protests, which she said prevented miscreants from taking advantage of the situation to cause mayhem.

Danlami praised residents of the city for resisting provocation from individuals seeking to create confusion in the state.

“Allah has spoken, and Sunusi is now in the palace, piloting the affairs of the Emirate. May Allah continue to guide him to bring about the progress we desire,” she told NAN.

Alhaji Abdullahi Yakubu said the return of Sunusi was a reflection of the desire of the people of the state.

Alhaji Musa Isa of Dala in Dala Local Government Area called on Aminu Ado Bayero, to accept the situation as the will of God.

Isa said there could only be one Emir at a time and urged Bayero to move on with his life as “Allah has spoken through the installation of Emir Sanusi.”

NAN reports that the Kofar Kudu palace of the Emir has been a beehive of activities with people from various parts of the city trooping to witness royal displays and performances.

These include traditional gun salutes for the Emir and the riding of well-decorated horses by palace aides.

Hawkers of various wares have also taken positions in front of the palace selling foods, drinks, textile materials, shoes and prayer mats, among others.

Praise singers and drummers also throng the palace daily, entertaining guest who come from various parts of the country to pay homage to the re-appointed Emir. (NAN)