The Lagos State chapter of the New Nigeria People’s Party has expressed its appreciation for the efforts of Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State in preserving the cultural heritage of the ancient state of Kano.
This commendation was made on Friday by the State’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Richard Benson, in a statement issued in Lagos.
Mr. Benson specifically highlighted the significance of re-enthroning the former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, as the 15th Emir of Kano, emphasizing that this move was crucial in maintaining the sanctity of tradition.
He noted, “We, the New Nigeria People’s Party, Lagos State chapter, hereby commend the effort of the amiable Governor of Kano Abba Yusuf, and our indefatigable National Leader Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso and the entire House of Assembly of Kano in ensuring that the cultural heritage of the people is preserved based on truth.”
In addition to praising Governor Yusuf, Benson also commended Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano State and the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the NNPP, for his dedication to preserving the state’s traditions.
He added, “This is what was just exhibited in Kano to prove that the cultural heritage of the ancient city of Kano is preserved and the generality of the people are happy to see that their tradition and core values are intact.”
Benson pointed out that Kano State has started to experience significant changes in governance, attributing this progress to the unwavering commitment of Governor Yusuf. He stated that the recent developments are a clear indication of the proactive efforts of both the governor and Senator Kwankwaso. “We are delighted with the efforts to restore and preserve the values, traditions, and heritage of the people as well as the commitment to put everything back in place and restore the lost glory of the ancient city of Kano,” he said.
However, Benson also expressed concern over certain politicians who he believes are exploiting the state’s core traditions and cultural heritage for political gain. He affirmed the Lagos chapter’s anticipation of further progress in Kano, the only state currently governed by the NNPP. He urged all NNPP leaders in Kano, including Governor Yusuf, Senator Kwankwaso, and the Kano State House of Assembly, to work collaboratively to set an example for other states.
In a recent development, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that on May 23, Governor Yusuf signed the amended Kano State Emirates Council bill into law. This bill, passed by the Kano State House of Assembly just hours earlier, dissolved the existing Emirate Council and dismissed the five Emirs appointed by the former governor, Abdullahi Ganduje. Among other changes, the bill approved the reinstatement of Sanusi, who was deposed in 2020, to his former position as the Emir of Kano.
The previous Kano State Emirates Council Law of 2019, signed by then-Governor Ganduje, had established five emirates: Kano, Bichi, Rano, Gaya, and Karaye. In March 2020, the state government dethroned Sanusi, citing insubordination, and replaced him with Aminu Ado Bayero. Sanusi’s re-enthronement marks a significant chapter in the history of the Kano Emirate, despite ongoing legal challenges and disputes surrounding the decision.