RE: Kano emirate imbroglio: A reflection

I read the well-written, well-researched and history-based article by a highly cerebral columnist, Mallam Gambo Dori, which was published on the back page of Daily Trust, Tuesday, 28th May, 2019. The title of the piece is “Kano emirate imbroglio: A Reflection II. I also read the first part of the article published the preceding week.

Though I enjoyed the article and I respect the columnist, I disagree with him on some points. He appears to be a neutral observer and oblivious of what is exactly happening in Kano State. Let me use this opportunity to clear the air on some of the issues.

It is true that the late Mallam Aminu Kano and his NEPU and PRP fought against native authority and emirates, but they did it on principle, it was their party’s ideology to champion the cause of the masses even against the wish of the emirs. So also the NPC felt that it was highly imperative to respect and safeguard the traditional institutions which colonial rule undermined. As Mallam Aminu Kano championed the cause of the masses, so also Sardauna and his NPC.These great men had the masses at the centre of their policies. That is why the North witnessed so much development under them. So, it was a matter of perspectives. NEPU and Mallam Aminu Kano felt that emirs and traditional rulers or institutions were anti-masses, while Sardauna and NPC felt differently, but they all loved the masses. But in the present case, it is not about the masses. Had it been Emir Muhammadu Sanusi opted to be subservient and remained silent on issues affecting the state, the governor will not have created more emirates. However, we must urge Governor Ganduje to exercise caution. There is no way creation of additional emirates will accelerate development more than granting total autonomy to our local government areas which the Governor’s Forum is vehemently opposing.

Comrade Bishir Dauda Sabuwar Unguwa wrote from Katsina and can be reached at: [email protected]