The battle for the throne of the emirate of Kano, one of West Africa’s oldest and most revered kingdoms, is intensifying. Two rival emirs are vying for control, each supported by different branches of Nigeria’s government, making the struggle a part of the wider political contest for power in the country.
Emir Sanusi, the current king, was ousted from the palace by the state governor, sparking a legal battle for his reinstatement. Emir Aminu, his rival, was installed in his place but is now fighting to maintain his position. The restored king, Emir Sanusi, has the support of the local governor, while the federal government appears to back Emir Aminu.
Amidst the power struggle, the people of Kano are deeply invested in who will ultimately control the kingdom. Supporters of both emirs have strong opinions, reflecting the wider political divisions in Nigeria. Analysts believe that the crisis in the emirate is being manipulated by politicians ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The situation has escalated to the point where armed confrontations could erupt, and tensions are high. Calls for peace and stability have been made, but the power struggle continues. Emir Aminu and Emir Sanusi are both fighting legal battles, with conflicting outcomes in state and federal courts.
As the emirate of Kano becomes embroiled in politics, the fate of its people hangs in the balance. The clash of the two emirs is not just a royal feud, but a reflection of the broader struggle for power in Nigeria. For now, both claimants to the throne remain entrenched in their positions, with the ancient royal flag flying above the palace, awaiting a resolution to the contested kingship.
Source
Photo credit www.nytimes.com