Ganduje Denies Endorsing Sanusi, Cites Protocol
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO — Former Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has denied reports suggesting he endorsed Muhammadu Sanusi II as Emir of Kano, describing such claims as a misinterpretation of his remarks at a recent public event.
Ganduje made the clarification in a statement issued by his Chief of Staff, Comrade Muhammad Garba, following reactions that trailed his reference to Sanusi by his traditional title during the swearing-in ceremony of the Deputy Governor in Kano.
“It is important to clarify that what happened was simply an expression of respect in a public gathering. It should not be misconstrued as an endorsement,” Ganduje said in the statement.
He explained that mentioning Sanusi by his title was in line with established protocol and courtesy at public functions, insisting that it did not in any way reflect his position on the ongoing emirship dispute in the state.
The former governor stressed that the matter remains before the courts, noting that only the Supreme Court of Nigeria has the authority to determine the final outcome of the Kano emirship tussle.
He cautioned against comments that could prejudice the legal process, emphasizing that the case is sub judice and requires restraint from all parties to avoid actions that may amount to contempt of court.
Ganduje recalled that the Court of Appeal had earlier directed all parties to maintain the status quo, pending the final determination of the case by the apex court.
He added that the current legal position recognises Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano, while Sanusi remains the 14th Emir, pending the final verdict.
The former governor further noted that he holds no constitutional authority to endorse or reject any claimant, stating that the responsibility lies with the judiciary and would subsequently be implemented by the Kano State Government.