The Kano State Government has hinted that the long-running rivalry over the Kano Emirship may finally be heading towards resolution, following Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, disclosed on Thursday that the state government had put concrete measures in place to restore lasting peace and stability, hinting that the “two emirs” stalemate was nearing its conclusion.
For nearly two years, Kano has been caught in a traditional deadlock, with Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II presiding from the main Gidan Rumfa palace, while Emir Aminu Ado Bayero remains at the Nassarawa mini-palace.
Speaking during a programme on Muhasa, a local radio station in Kano, Waiya suggested that the political “unification” of the state and federal governments under the APC had removed the primary obstacles to a peaceful settlement.
“I assure you that very soon, the Kano government will resolve the dispute over the Kano Emirate, because we are now one,” he declared.
The commissioner further hinted that the contenders themselves might play a role in the resolution.
“It is possible that some will step down from the throne on their own, or others will seek reconciliation because a mutual understanding has been reached,” he said.
Waiya emphasised that the administration is committed to dialogue with all stakeholders, stressing that the matter would not be allowed to generate tension or hinder governance.
“Our approach is guided by respect for the rule of law, traditional institutions, and the collective interests of the people of Kano State,” he said.
On the governor’s defection to the APC, Waiya described the move as a development that would bring significant benefits to the state.
“The defection opens more doors for Kano. With stronger collaboration with the Federal Government, we expect more support in critical sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, and social welfare,” he said.
He said Kano residents should expect increased dividends of democracy, stating that closer alignment with the federal government would attract more interventions, projects, and development initiatives to the state.
Commenting on the political future of the deputy governor who has not defected alongside the governor, the commissioner said the decision remained a personal one.
He explained that it was entirely up to the deputy governor to decide whether to continue working with the governor within the new political arrangement or choose a different path.
Waiya further emphasised that the administration remains focused on what he described as the “Kano First” agenda, insisting that loyalty to the state’s development objectives must come before personal or factional interests.
“Our priority is Kano. Anyone whose interest collides with that objective will not be allowed to slow down governance,” he said.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transparency, peace, and inclusive governance, urging Kano residents to remain calm and supportive as efforts continued to resolve outstanding issues and move the state forward.
