Settle Kano Emirate Tussle With Football Match, Ex-Senator Tells Sanusi II, Bayero

A former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Comrade Shehu Sani, has proposed a novel solution to the ongoing Kano Emirate dispute, suggesting that the two main contenders—Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and Emir Aminu Ado Bayero—settle their differences through a football match rather than the ongoing judicial proceedings.

In a humorous yet thought-provoking post shared on his Facebook on Thursday, Sani suggested that both Emir Sanusi and Emir Bayero should withdraw their respective cases from the courts and resolve the conflict in a football match, where each Emir would captain a team made up of players from Kano.

The Proposal:

• Football Match: The two Emirs would pick players from their respective followers and lead their teams in a match at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
• Role of Referee: Senator Shehu Sani humorously volunteered to serve as a referee for the match, citing his maternal and paternal connections in the Bebeji and Bichi localities.
• Winner Takes the Throne: The winning team would have their Emir crowned, with Team Aminu FC or Team Sanusi FC determining who occupies the Kano throne.

Shehu Sani’s Statement:

Sani, known for his satirical and candid style of addressing serious issues, wrote:

“His Highness Aminu Bayero and His Highness Sanusi should withdraw their case in court. Both should select football players from Kano for their teams and play a match in the Sani Abacha Stadium. The two contending Emirs should be captains of their team. I can volunteer as a referee since I have some maternal and paternal relations in Bebeji and Bichi (Danzabuwa). Whoever emerges as the winner between Team Aminu FC or Team Sanusi FC automatically becomes the Emir. Nagode.”

This creative approach to resolving the crisis between the two powerful figures has sparked mixed reactions online, with many finding it amusing and refreshing, while others see it as a distraction from the serious political and cultural implications of the dispute.

Context of the Emirate Dispute:

The Kano Emirate tussle has been a source of significant tension, with Emir Sanusi being dethroned in 2020 by the state government under the leadership of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and replaced by Emir Aminu Ado Bayero. Since then, there have been legal battles and public disagreements between the two factions over the legitimate ruler of the Emirate, creating divisions among supporters of both parties.

Despite the tensions, Sani’s suggestion for a football match as a solution draws attention to his unique approach to resolving conflicts, emphasizing a blend of humor and practicality. Whether or not the idea will be seriously considered remains to be seen, but it certainly provides a lighter moment in an otherwise tense situation.