Protests in Kano Over Appointment of Lamido Sanusi as Emir

The supporters of Sanusi Ado Bayero, the son of the late Emir of Kano, who was defeated by Lamido Sanusi to emerge the emir of the ancient city, have taken to the streets to protest the rejection of their preferred candidate.

A resident of the town, Ibrahim Hamisu, told PREMIUM TIMES that the protesters set up bonfires using tyres around the Emirs’ palace.

He also said another group of protesters, who were marching to the Government House, were stopped by armed soldiers and policemen who formed a barricade to stop them from getting near the seat of government.

Another resident, Bala Usman, said the protesters were also destroying all government properties in sight.

The Secretary to the Government of Kano state, Rabi’u Bichi, had earlier announced the selection of Mr. Sanusi as the new emir of Kano following his recommendation by the kingmakers and approval by Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Mr. Bichi made the brief announcement at Government House, Kano, on Sunday. He disclosed that the government chose Mr. Sanusi’s out of three candidates forwarded to him by Kano Kingmakers.

“Under state customary law, the kingmakers comprising the Madaki, Sarkin Bai, Makaman and Sarkin Dawaki Maituta had sat down and forwarded three names to the government to choose the one that will succeed the Late Emir Ado Abdullahi Bayero.

“Out of these three names the government has approved Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the Dan Majen Kano, and former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN,  as the new emir of Kano,” the SSG said.