In a dramatic development that underscores the ongoing leadership tussle within the Kano Emirate, two parallel appointments were made on Tuesday to the prestigious position of Galadiman Kano, one of the highest-ranking traditional titles in the emirate.
The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, each installed separate individuals as Galadima in separate ceremonies held at different royal palaces across the city.
Emir Sanusi II, who was recently reinstated following a controversial reversal of his 2020 dethronement, appointed Alhaji Munir Sanusi Bayero, the current district head of Bichi, as Galadiman Kano.
The installation ceremony took place at the main palace in Kofar Mata, the historic seat of the Kano Emirate Council.
Simultaneously, Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, who has refused to step down amid the emirate’s leadership dispute, appointed Alhaji Sunusi Lamido Ado Bayero to the same title in a separate event held at the Nasaruwa palace, where Bayero currently resides.
The title of Galadima is regarded as one of the most senior and respected within the Kano traditional hierarchy. Holders of the title serve as key advisers to the Emir, often playing central roles in council decisions and cultural affairs.
Observers say the double appointment reflects the unresolved leadership conflict in Kano, with both Emirs exercising authority and issuing titles despite ongoing political and legal debates over who holds the legitimate crown.
In addition to naming a new Galadima, Emir Sanusi II also announced the elevation of four other traditional titleholders:
Wamban Kano – Alhaji Kabir Tijjani Hashim, District Head of Nassarawa
Turakin Kano – Alhaji Mahmud Ado Bayero, District Head of Gwale
Tafidan Kano – Adam Lamido Sanusi
Yariman Kano – Alhaji Ahmad Abbas Sanusi
These appointments were made during a formal council session at the Kofar Mata palace and are seen as a strategic move to consolidate Emir Sanusi’s control over the emirate’s traditional leadership structure.
Meanwhile, sources within the emirate report rising tensions and a sense of uncertainty as both emirs continue to perform royal duties from different palaces. Legal and political resolutions are still pending.
As the situation unfolds, residents and observers alike are watching closely to see which of the two rival Emirs will eventually gain uncontested recognition in Nigeria’s oldest and most influential emirate.
