In a significant turn of events, the Kano State House of Assembly has passed the Kano Emirates Council Law (Repeal Bill) 2024, effectively abolishing the establishment of five new emirates that were created by former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
This legislative move has opened the possibility for the deposed Emir of Kano, Malam Sanusi Lamido, to potentially reclaim his position as the Emir of Kano, overseeing all 44 local government areas of the state.
The reversal of the law marks a notable shift in the traditional governance structure of Kano State, reverting back to the previous system of a singular emirate.
As a result, the bill, which easily passed its third reading, repeals the creation of the Bichi, Rano, Gaya, and Karaye emirates, in addition to the historic Kano Emirate. Furthermore, all offices created under the repealed law have been dissolved, and district heads appointed or elevated under the previous legislation are expected to revert to their former positions.
The bill, officially titled the Kano State Emirates Council (Amendment No. 2) Law, 2024, was sponsored by Lawan Hussaini Chediyar Yan Gurasa, the Majority Leader and representative of the Dala Constituency.
It is worth noting that the original law, enacted on December 5, 2019, under former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, had undergone two amendments: first on October 14, 2020, and then on April 11, 2023. The initial law established the five separate emirates, granting jurisdiction over the 44 local government areas in the state.
Additionally, following the removal of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi on March 9, 2020, the law was amended to designate the Emir of Kano as the chairman of the council. Another amendment allowed the governor to classify emir offices into first, second, or third class, subject to the assembly’s approval.
An anonymous principal officer of the assembly emphasized the authority of the assembly, stating that no external influence can prevent them from amending the law.
