By Editor
In a powerful and impassioned statement, Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has condemned the Federal Government’s deployment of soldiers to Kano amidst the ongoing tussle over the emirate throne. Abubakar’s remarks highlight the serious implications of this federal intervention, which he argues poses a significant threat to the peace, security, and constitutional integrity of Nigeria.
![](https://i0.wp.com/atlanticpostng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Image-12.jpg?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1)
A Legislative and Executive Clash
The current crisis in Kano has its roots in a series of recent legislative and executive actions. The Kano State House of Assembly (KSHA), in its constitutional role, passed the amended Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Bill 2024. This move was intended to repeal the 2019 law that divided the ancient Kano Emirate into five separate entities. The bill was subsequently signed into law by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, in accordance with Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.
Governor Yusuf, exercising his powers under Section 5(2) of the Constitution, acted in consultation with the Kingmakers of Kano to reappoint Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, also known as Muhammadu Sanusi II, as the 16th Emir of Kano. This decision was formalized with an official letter of appointment, adhering to the traditional and legal protocols of the state.
Federal Overreach and Constitutional Concerns
In his statement, Atiku Abubakar expressed profound concern over the early morning incursion by federal soldiers, which he views as a direct violation of Kano’s constitutional rights. At approximately 5:30 a.m., former Emir of Kano, His Majesty Aminu Ado Bayero, returned to the Nasarawa Palace backed by federal might, while the reappointed Emir, Muhammadu Sanusi II, was at Gidan Dabo, the main residence of the Emir of Kano.
Abubakar emphasized that this federal intervention disrupts the lawful and peaceful proceedings undertaken by the state government and the traditional authorities of Kano. He warned that such actions undermine the rule of law and threaten to destabilize the long-standing peace and harmony that Kano has enjoyed for centuries.
A Call for Respect and Restraint
Atiku Abubakar’s statement is a call to the Tinubu administration to respect the constitutional autonomy of Kano State and to refrain from actions that could lead to unrest. He reminded the federal authorities that Kano, known as the “Land of Commerce,” has a history of maintaining peace and stability, even in the face of significant political changes.
“We need to remind the Tinubu administration that Kano State is known for peace and harmony spanning thousands of years, and any attempt to destabilize the peace of the Land of Commerce shall be resisted,” Abubakar stated. He recalled that when Muhammadu Sanusi II was dethroned on March 9, 2020, the state remained peaceful, demonstrating the resilience and unity of its people.
Legal and Political Ramifications
The deployment of soldiers in Kano raises critical legal and political questions. Section 217 of the 1999 Constitution stipulates that the Armed Forces shall be used for the defense of the country, the suppression of insurrection, and the restoration of order when called upon by the President. However, this deployment must be in accordance with an Act of the National Assembly. Legal experts argue that the current situation in Kano does not meet these criteria, as there has been no insurrection or breakdown of law and order.
The Federal Government’s actions have sparked fears of political instability and potential conflict in Kano. Abubakar’s condemnation reflects a broader concern that federal overreach could set a dangerous precedent, undermining the delicate balance of power between the federal and state governments.
Reactions from Key Stakeholders
The response to the federal intervention has been swift and critical. Political leaders, legal experts, and civil society organizations have condemned the deployment of soldiers, calling for immediate withdrawal and respect for Kano’s constitutional rights. The Kano State government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and upholding the rule of law, urging residents to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
Dr. Usman Suleiman, a prominent political analyst and former lawmaker, supported Abubakar’s stance, stating, “The deployment of soldiers in Kano is a clear violation of the constitutional provisions governing the relationship between the federal and state governments. It is an overreach that sets a dangerous precedent for our democracy. The Federal Government must respect the autonomy of the states and allow the legal processes to take their course.”
The Role of Traditional Institutions
The traditional institutions in Kano have been crucial in maintaining social cohesion and stability. The reappointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano was seen as a step towards restoring the emirate’s traditional structure and leadership. The federal intervention disrupts this balance and undermines the authority of the traditional leaders.
The Kingmakers of Kano, who played a crucial role in the reappointment process, expressed their dismay at the federal intervention. Alhaji Umar Dankadai, a spokesperson for the Kingmakers, emphasized the importance of respecting traditional protocols and the decisions made by the legitimate authorities in Kano. “The Kingmakers of Kano have always upheld the traditions and customs of our emirate. The recent actions by the Federal Government are a direct challenge to our authority and the will of the people of Kano,” he said.
The Path Forward
As tensions continue to rise, the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution becomes paramount. The Federal Government must engage with the Kano State government and traditional leaders to address the underlying issues and find a solution that respects the constitutional framework and the will of the people.
The international community and human rights organizations have also been urged to monitor the situation and advocate for adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law. The outcome of this crisis will have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s federal structure and the balance of power between the federal and state governments.
Abubakar’s call for restraint and respect for constitutional authority resonates with the broader need for maintaining Nigeria’s democratic principles. The federal authorities must recognize the importance of state autonomy and avoid actions that could destabilize the nation’s fragile political equilibrium.
Conclusion
The current crisis in Kano serves as a critical test for Nigeria’s democracy and federalism. The deployment of soldiers in a state matter has exposed the fragility of the country’s constitutional framework and the need for strict adherence to the principles of federalism and the rule of law. As the situation unfolds, the actions of the Federal Government and the response from the Kano State government will be closely watched by citizens and the international community.
The Atlantic Post remains committed to providing comprehensive and accurate coverage of this developing story, ensuring that our readers are informed about the significant events shaping the future of Kano and Nigeria as a whole.
Discover more from Atlantic Post
Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.
You must be logged in to post a comment.