The Kano State Government has refuted claims that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) includes a plan to remove the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, from the throne.

Governor Yusuf’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, described the speculation as “false and misleading,” stressing that there is no intention to tamper with the emirate structure.

According to Arise TV, Bature said, “There is no plan to replace Emir Sanusi on the throne of Kano.

“The appointment of the Emir was made after the emirate law was repealed, and there is no intention at the executive level to amend it.”

He emphasised that the governor’s political realignment will not change the current status of the Kano Emirate.

Bature further stated, “Emir Sanusi has been duly appointed in accordance with the law, and the governor’s defection to the APC will not change the status quo. Emir Sanusi remains the Emir of Kano.”

Bature urged residents not to politicise the emirate issue, attributing ongoing speculation to the personal interests of some individuals rather than any government policy.

“The emirate issue is not a political decision. It is being driven by the personal interests of some individuals,” he said.

His clarification came days after the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Waiya, said the government was pursuing dialogue and reconciliation to resolve the prolonged Kano Emirate crisis.

The emirate crisis, which has persisted for nearly two years, followed the removal of the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, and the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II, leading to competing claims to the throne.

Speaking recently, Waiya assured that the crisis would be resolved soon as stakeholders embrace unity.

He said, “The Kano State Government assures you that very soon the emirate dispute will be resolved because we are now one.

“The government is committed to dialogue with all stakeholders to bring lasting peace to the Kano Emirate.”

Waiya added that the resolution process might involve voluntary withdrawal by some claimants or reconciliation based on mutual understanding.

Meanwhile, Governor Yusuf’s spokesperson reiterated that the state government has not formally engaged the Bayero camp as part of any negotiation.

He urged residents to remain calm and avoid rumours.

“The state government has not formally engaged the Bayero camp, and there is no such negotiation process underway,” he said.