Nigeria: Influential Emir Dethroned

Muhammadu Sanusi II – one of the most influential, traditional Muslim leaders in Nigeria – has been removed from his throne on Monday, 9 March.

Formerly a banker, Sanusi succeeded his grand-uncle, Ado Bayero, as the Emir of Kano – a city located in Nigeria’s North West state – in June 2014.

Although the former Emir did not serve a constitutional role in the country, he wielded great influence over his subjects, especially those in the predominantly Muslim north. He was also known to be critical of some government policies, which put him at odds with ruling politicians.

This included clashing with the state governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, who split the Kano emirate into five and appointed four more Emirs in order to weaken Sanusi’s influence.

Sanusi was reportedly escorted out of his palace by security forces to neighbouring Nasawara state, where he is expected to live out his life in exile.

Per a government statement, the former Emir was accused of being “disrespect to lawful instructions”, and was thus removed to safeguard the values of the Kano state emirate.

Bayero’s son, Aminu Ado Bayero, has since replaced Sanusi as Emir by the government.

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