The governor of Kano state, Abba Yusuf, has issued a notice to the dethroned emir of Kano, Aminu Bayero, to vacate the Nasarawa palace immediately.
Governor Yusuf stated that the dilapidated parts of the property need to be demolished for reconstruction and renovation purposes.
The state government expressed concern on Sunday, June 23, that Bayero was still residing in the Nasarawa palace, which was deemed unsafe for him. Governor Yusuf approved the sum of N99.9 million for the urgent reconstruction and renovation of the palace during the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting on Saturday.
The governor emphasized that Bayero should leave the premises promptly for his safety and to prevent any embarrassment. The first notice was issued by the State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Haruna Dederi, on behalf of the governor, citing a federal high court ruling that upheld the law passed by the Kano State House of Assembly.
This law was used by the state government to remove Bayero and reinstate Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th emir of Kano. The governor’s Media and Publicity Director General, Sanusi Bature, highlighted that the Nasarawa palace is a burial ground and must be vacated by Bayero for the planned reconstruction.
He stated, “Therefore, the Nasawara palace serves as a burial ground for the late Emirs of Kano, rather than being a grand palace.
“Additionally, a section of the palace is utilized as a guest house for esteemed visitors of the palace. It also serves as a temporary residence for the emir when he returns from the annual festival during the Sallah celebration or when he visits the Government House.
“Hence, Aminu is residing in a cemetery. He forcefully acquired that property. Our intention is to renovate it so that it can be restored to its original purpose and ensure Bayero’s safety from the deteriorating structure.
“We are genuinely concerned about the risks associated with him continuing to reside in the cemetery.
“Following the repeal of the 2019 emirate law, which established additional emirates such as Bichi, Karaye, Gaya, and Rano, Bayero’s jurisdiction no longer exists.
“In other words, with the amendment of the law to unite Kano under one emirate, the emirate that Bayero once presided over no longer exists.
“He served as the 15th Emir of Kano state, but his authority extended only to the eight metropolitan government councils, which have now been abolished.
“Regarding the recent ruling that nullified the state government’s actions in relation to the repealed emirate law, the government’s spokesperson mentioned that they have appealed the decision and remain hopeful of a favorable judgment. They emphasized that the dismissal and appointment of emirs are solely within the jurisdiction of the state, and they praised the ruling for not overturning the new law but confirming Bayero’s dethronement.”
