Security forces on Friday sealed off the official residence of the Galadima of Kano following a brewing crisis over the emergence of two individuals claiming the prestigious traditional title. The controversial developments came after the death of the former Galadiman Kano, Alhaji Abbas Sanusi, leaving a power vacuum that both factions sought to fill.
The situation has escalated amid a deepening leadership conflict within the Kano Emirate, which saw the recent reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi as Emir by the Kano State Government. This move came four years after his removal, sparking a rivalry between him and Alhaji Aminu Bayero, who was installed in 2020 following Sanusi’s deposition. Bayero has refused to step down, asserting his legitimacy as the rightful Emir of Kano.
On Friday, supporters of the Kano State Government, backing Sanusi, officially installed Alhaji Mannir Sanusi, the Wamban Kano, as the new Galadiman Kano. Meanwhile, a separate faction loyal to Bayero appointed Alhaji Sanusi Ado Bayero as Galadima at a different ceremony held at the Nasarawa mini-palace.
As tensions soared, heavily armed security operatives surrounded the Galadima House in the Galadanci area early Friday morning, locking down the premises and restricting access. A security source, who requested anonymity, stated that the action was taken to avert a breakdown of law and order in the city.
There has been no official statement from either the Kano State Government or security agencies regarding the lockdown as of the time of this report.
At the Kano Emirate palace, Sanusi continued his symbolic elevation of loyalists, promoting Alhaji Kabir Hashim to Wamban Kano and Alhaji Mahmoud Bayero to Turakin Kano. He also elevated Alhaji Adam Sanusi to Tafidan Kano, and Alhaji Ahmad Sanusi was appointed Yariman Kano.
In his speech, Sanusi remarked, “These titles are not mere symbols but call for service, dedication, and integrity. I urge you to uphold the dignity of the institution and collaborate with local councils to foster development and good governance.”
Sanusi emphasized that the appointments were based on merit and community contributions, stressing the importance of justice, fairness, and humility in their roles.
As Kano grapples with its traditional leadership struggle, the security situation remains tense, with both factions vying for control of the Emirate.
