The Northern Elders Forum, NEF, has called for caution over the scrapping of five Emirates Council in Kano State by the Governor.
The elders, however, expressed concern over the unfolding Kano State emirate crisis that led to the removal of the five first class emirs in the state.
This was disclosed by the forum’s spokesperson, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman.’
In a statement released to newsmen on Friday, Suleiman cautioned Governor Abba Yusuf and politicians involved to exercise restraint. He said this is to avoid violence in the State.
The spokesman maintained that the Elders are working to to settle political scores.
Recall that Governor Yusuf, on Thursday, reinstated Lamido Sanusi as Emir of Kano. That was four years after he was deposed by the former Governor of the State, Abubakar Ganduje.
But on Thursday, Governor Yusuf signed the Bill repealing the State Emirate Council Law 2019. The Bill had given the State five Emirate Councils.
On Thursday, the Kano State House of Assembly passed the Bill for the dissolution of the four additional emirates and the removal of all five Emirs.
Making the pronouncement, the Governor said the reinstated of Sanusi is in fulfilment of a campaign promise.
Yusuf stated that the new law provided for the reinstatement of Sanusi as Emir of Kano and removal of the five Emirs.
But reacting to the development, the Northern Elders Forum, NEF, expressed grave concern. The group maintained that it is extremely worried and profoundly agitated by the recent events in Kano.
It, however, cautioned on the situation where emirates have been multiplied and traditional rulers have been dethroned and replaced.
The elder therefore, described the development a clear example of the struggles faced by traditional rulers in the country.
According to NEF, that recent crisis surrounding the emirate in Kano state has raised tensions and concerns among the public.
“As responsible citizens, we urge the Government of Kano State and politicians involved to exercise caution in handling this sensitive issue. This is in order to prevent further escalation of tensions.
“It is important for all parties involved to approach this matter with the utmost care and professionalism. This is keeping in mind the potential consequences of their actions.
“Rash decisions and inflammatory statements can only serve to worsen the situation and jeopardize the peace and stability of the State.
“We also call upon the public to remain calm and law-abiding in the face of this crisis. It is crucial that we do not engage in any actions that could potentially threaten the peace and security of the State.
“Violence and unrest will only serve to further divide us. And it will hinder any chance of finding a peaceful resolution to the current situation.
“In times of crisis, it is imperative that we come together as a community and work towards finding common ground and mutual understanding. Let us all strive to prioritize peace and harmony, and avoid actions that could lead to further discord and conflict.
The NEF, however, bemoaned that the traditional institution in Nigeria has long been facing challenges and obstacles. The Forum stated that these have rendered the institution weak and ineffective.
“Now, this problem seems to be particularly acute in Kano. Where a power struggle has led to the creation of multiple emirates. Thereby diluting the authority and influence of traditional rulers in the region.
The Forum maintained that the multiplication and duplicity of emirates in Kano is a clear attempt to weaken the traditional institution. And also, to undermine the authority of the traditional rulers.
“By creating multiple emirates,” the Forum said, “the power and influence of individual traditional rulers are diluted. Thus, making it easier for politicians to control and manipulate them.
The Forum, furthermore, stated that the arbitrary dethronement and replacement of high-ranking traditional rulers in Kano not only weaken the authority and legitimacy of traditional rulers. But also send a message that their role and relevance in society are easily dispensable.
It described the move as threatening to the unity and cohesion of the traditional structure. And also undermining the centuries-old customs, values, and traditions that have been the bedrock of the Nigerian society.
The Forum said, “The perpetuation of these challenges is a reflection of the wider issue of the emasculation of traditional rulers in Nigeria. Over the years, traditional rulers have been systematically sidelined and disempowered by various administrative mechanisms. And the so-called “reforms” have only served to weaken their influence and render their role ineffectual.
“In order to address these challenges and reinvigorate the traditional institution in Nigeria, it is imperative that traditional rulers be re-empowered and given the recognition and support they deserve. This can only be achieved through a concerted effort to restore the statutory recognition of traditional rulers in the country. And to provide them with the necessary resources and authority to fulfill their duties effectively.
“Without the necessary empowerment and support, traditional rulers will continue to struggle to play a meaningful role in society. This is in addressing pressing issues such as crime and drug abuse. Their marginalization not only diminishes their ability to effectively govern their domains but also leaves them vulnerable to political interference and manipulation,” Suleiman said.
For more news, follow us on our WhatsApp’s NEWS CHANNEL on
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaC505jB4hdZ5Yx9g82U
