According to the report from the Vanguard, In an interview, Professor Umar Labdo, a respected scholar of Islamic Political Thought and a prominent Kano indigene, provides a deep understanding of the emirship tussle in Kano. Professor Labdo, who teaches at Yusuf Maitama Sule University, offers a perspective that, while potentially unpopular to both sides involved, suggests a peaceful resolution to avoid a larger conflict in the state, region, and country. He also provides historical context to the issue.
The Kano Emirate has been in crisis following the reinstatement of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, leaving many surprised that such a respected emirate could be embroiled in controversy. Professor Labdo describes this situation as "a very unfortunate development," noting that "Kano is a prominent commercial centre in Nigeria. It is historical and a melting pot for different people from West Africa and beyond. The traditional institution in Kano has been there for centuries. For this same institution to find itself in such a situation, is unfortunate. We, Kano indigenes, are not happy about it, and we think the elders and people in authority should exercise wisdom in resolving this seemingly intricate conflict."
An additional layer of complexity in the crisis is the involvement of descendants of the Dabo dynasty. Professor Labdo comments, "It is a family affair but those fuelling the crisis are not members of the family. I mean the politicians. It is fair to say that members of the family are allowing themselves to be used by politicians. To that extent, it is very unfortunate because this family is supposed to be a mature family. It is a family that has a place in history."
Drawing from historical precedents, Professor Labdo recalls the deposition of Muhammadu Sanusi I, the grandfather of Muhammadu Sanusi II. "This is not the first time an Emir is being deposed in Kano. We saw what happened with the grandfather of the 16th Emir as they call him, Muhammadu Sanusi II. Muhammadu Sanusi I, who was deposed during the First Republic, it was said that the then governor, Abubakar Rimi, wanted to reinstate him as Emir of Kano and deposed the then Emir, Alhaji Ado Bayero, but Sir Muhammadu Sanusi rejected the idea. He said the Emir at the time was his younger brother and would not allow himself to conflict with him. He said the Emir should continue. He said the governor presented the option of dividing the Emirate into two so that he would head one part, but he declined."
Rimi then suggested that Sanusi I return to Kano from exile, to which the former Emir agreed but chose to live outside the ancient city. "Muhammadu Sanusi came back to Kano, but he settled in Wudil. That was where he resided until he died. This is a very good historical precedent from which the current actors could have taken a clue. Unfortunately, they have not. To that extent, we the people of Kano are sad," Professor Labdo concluded.