Former Governor of Kano State, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, has voiced his concern over the ongoing emirship tussle in Kano State, emphasizing that while the situation deeply troubles him, he has chosen not to interfere in the matter.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels TV’s *Politics Today*, Shekarau attributed the crisis to political meddling and expressed hope for a swift resolution.
Shekarau, a senior member of the emirate council and a former governor, highlighted his deep connection to Kano and its traditional institutions, stating that his primary concern is the peace and stability of the state.
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He explained that his decision to refrain from discussing the issue publicly stems from his respect for the ongoing legal processes surrounding the dispute.
“I am a very senior member of the emirate council, and apart from that, I governed the state. So, I am a very senior citizen of the state. The day the matter went to court, I said I will not discuss or interfere, no matter what,” Shekarau said.
“This bothers me. I am from Kano. I want everything in Kano to be peaceful. We are waiting, and my prayer is that we overcome it soonest. There will be peace. We need the traditional institution.”
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Shekarau pointed to the involvement of politicians as a key factor in the escalation of the emirship crisis, suggesting that the traditional institutions could have handled the situation more effectively if left to operate independently.
He stressed the importance of collaboration between traditional leaders and government officials to ensure harmony within the state.
“It was the political angle that seemed to have led us into this crisis. If the politicians had kept away from all of this, and of course the traditional institution if properly engaged, I don’t see any disagreement,” Shekarau remarked. “The traditional institutions are leading in their own right in society. The governor, or any government appointee, is a leader. There has to be this synergy of understanding.”
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Reflecting on his time as governor, Shekarau recalled initiatives like the almajiri council, which he established in collaboration with the emir of Kano, to demonstrate how traditional and governmental institutions can work together for the common good.
As the legal battle over the emirship continues, Shekarau’s comments underscore the complex interplay between politics and tradition in Kano State and the challenges faced in maintaining the delicate balance of power and influence within the state’s leadership structures.