Emir Power Struggle: Police Decide Who Leads Friday Prayer Amid SanY

The party expressed concerns that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is using federal security forces to infringe upon the state’s autonomy, particularly regarding traditional rulership matters. In a statement issued on Saturday by NNPP spokesman Ladipo Johnson, the party accused the APC of deploying security agencies to disrupt peace and undermine legal functions in Kano.

Johnson described the situation as a dangerous maneuver that could destabilize the state’s governance and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene to prevent the situation from escalating into violence.

The NNPP’s statement also criticized the reinstatement of the deposed Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, under heavy military escort, calling it a violation of constitutional governance. “This is a direct assault on the state’s right to manage its local governance and chieftaincy affairs, which are clearly delegated to the states under our federal system,” Johnson said.

The conflict stems from recent legislative changes by the Kano State Assembly, which led to the restoration of the Kano Emirate’s traditional structure. Despite this move being ratified by the state governor, certain federal entities have opposed it.

The NNPP has called on national leaders, Nigerian citizens, and the international community to urge President Tinubu to rein in party members allegedly trying to plunge Kano and the broader northern region into turmoil for personal political gains.

“Allowing the issues in Kano to be resolved peacefully, without federal interference, is not only a matter of respecting state rights but also upholding democratic values,” Johnson added.

The party also condemned the Kano State Police Commissioner’s refusal to follow Governor Abba Yusuf’s directives, viewing it as a disregard for the governor’s authority as the state’s chief security officer. According to the NNPP, this act sets a dangerous precedent where federal power is used to undermine state authority, potentially leading to a constitutional crisis.