The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has advised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to take a firmer stance against individuals working to undermine his administration, warning that excessive patience risks being mistaken for weakness.
Sanusi offered the counsel during the traditional post-Eid Sallah homage at the government house—a longstanding cultural practice in Kano. Citing the Qur’an, he stressed that effective leadership must balance justice with unmistakable authority.
“In the holy Qur’an, after Allah spoke about sending messengers and holy books, He also mentioned iron, which scholars interpret as authority and power. Justice cannot stand without these two things,” the Emir said.
While commending Governor Yusuf for his administration’s expansion of schools, healthcare, and social programmes, Sanusi cautioned against extending respect to those who do not merit it.
“If you honour a person of dignity, you win their loyalty. But if you honour someone without dignity, they become arrogant and look down on you,” he noted.
The Emir observed that many residents now perceive the governor as overly patient, a view shaped by recent disorder in the state.
“Because of the disorder happening in Kano, people think they have a very patient governor and everyone can do whatever they like,” Sanusi said.
He urged Yusuf to demonstrate stronger authority, stating: “My advice to you as a brother is to rise to this challenge and let people know there is a government in Kano. If someone obeys the law, let them live in peace. If they refuse, deal with them.”
According to Sanusi, the crowd’s reaction during his address showed public support for a tougher approach. He pledged the full backing of the emirate council, stressing that the governor’s success is tied to Kano’s collective future.
In his response, Governor Yusuf thanked the Emir and his council, apologising for the cancellation of the Hawan Daushe procession—a traditional Sallah horse-riding event. He explained the decision was made to avert potential violence during the celebrations.
“I want to assure His Royal Highness and the people of Kano that since Allah made me governor, I have never feared any human being except Allah,” Yusuf said.
He recalled past violent incidents during public outings and insisted that his restraint was motivated by a duty to protect lives. Security agencies have repeatedly suspended Sallah horse-riding activities in Kano due to tensions surrounding the ongoing emirate tussle between Sanusi and Aminu Ado Bayero, a matter still before the courts.
