According to the report from the Vanguard, In an insightful interview, Professor Umar Labdo, a distinguished scholar of Islamic Political Thought and prominent Kano indigene, provides a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing emirship tussle in Kano. The Yusuf Maitama Sule University-based professor suggests a potential resolution, emphasizing the need for an amicable settlement to prevent larger conflicts within the state, region, and country. He also offers a historical context to the issue.
Professor Labdo argues for a significant change in how traditional institutions are governed. "It would be highly welcome if the traditional institution is removed from the control of governors. The sooner it is done, the better for all of us," He states.
Highlighting recent developments, he notes, "If you read the papers recently, there were reports that Sokoto State governor wants to depose the Sultan of Sokoto. The Sultan is the head of all the emirates in northern Nigeria. The trend is becoming serious. I believe if things are allowed to continue this way, it will be inimical to peace in the region and Nigeria as a whole."
To address this, Labdo advocates for constitutional amendments. "Therefore, there should be a constitutional amendment to correct this situation. States have their different laws, which are somehow similar. The laws give the governor the power to appoint, depose, and reinstate. I think the laws should be unified, amended, and beyond the control of politicians. But it is easier said than done. Who will change the laws? Is it not politicians? It is the state House of Assembly and the governor. Most of the state legislatures are in the pockets of state governors."
He cites specific instances from Kano, where political manipulation is evident. "Regarding the Kano incident, before the law was hurriedly changed, expensive Sports Utility Vehicles were said to have been distributed to members of the state House of Assembly. Ostensibly, they were given to them by the state government, but there were allegations that the cars were bought by someone else,"
Labdo explains. "What I am saying is that the laws are supposed to be changed. Unfortunately, it is the politicians who will change the laws, but they are unlikely to do that because they are in their interest. They want to make use of the institutions to the detriment of their opponents."
Labdo also points out the lack of strong intervention from the public. "Another thing is that our people are not strong in terms of intervening. The common man in Nigeria, especially in Northern Nigeria, does not have a strong voice. Until we call politicians to order, we will continue to experience what happened in Kano in other places," he warns.
Concluding with a plea for vigilance, Labdo expresses concern over potential future conflicts. "May God not allow it to happen in Sokoto because we have seen reports about plans to depose the Sultan," he says, underscoring the need for proactive measures to safeguard traditional institutions from political interference.