Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State, has issued a definitive statement regarding the ongoing emirship dispute, asserting that only the Supreme Court of Nigeria possesses the authority to determine the fate of Muhammadu Sanusi II. He clarified that any eventual ruling from the apex court would be upheld and implemented by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, strictly in line with the rule of law.

Ganduje’s clarification came in response to reports alleging that he had endorsed Sanusi as the Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Chiefs. In a statement signed by his Chief of Staff and former Commissioner for Information, Comrade Muhammad Garba, the former governor described these reports as a misinterpretation. He explained that his reference to Sanusi by his traditional title during the swearing-in ceremony of the Deputy Governor was merely a matter of courtesy and protocol in a public gathering. Ganduje emphasized, “It is important to clarify that what happened was simply an expression of respect in a public gathering. It should not be misconstrued as an endorsement.”

He further stressed that the emirship tussle remains sub judice, meaning it is still under judicial consideration, and cautioned that public commentary must be handled carefully to avoid actions that could amount to contempt of court. Ganduje recalled that the Court of Appeal had previously directed all parties involved to maintain the status quo pending the final determination of the case.

Addressing the current legal landscape, Ganduje explained that, “The subsisting legal position recognises Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano and Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 14th Emir, pending the final judgment of the Supreme Court.” He underscored that as a former governor, he possesses no constitutional authority to either endorse or reject any claimant to the emirship, reiterating that the matter rests entirely with the judiciary and, subsequently, with the state government.

Dr. Ganduje expressed regret that the issue had been unnecessarily amplified by certain sections of the media, suggesting that what was essentially a routine acknowledgment of established protocol had been exaggerated. He concluded by urging all parties to exercise restraint and patiently await the Supreme Court’s judgment, which is anticipated to be delivered in April of next year.