Ex-CBN Governor Lamido Sanusi leads race for Emir of Kano stool

Few hours after the death of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, about 30 candidates have signified their interests in the stool, with a former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, emerging as one of the leading contenders.

The stool, which is about 1,000 years old from 999CE, has produced about 58 rulers.

Out of the 30 candidates, most of whom are doing so for symbolic reasons, seven are strongly in the race.

The top candidates are ex-CBN Governor Sanusi (Dan Majen Kano); the Ciroman Kano (heir apparent), Sanusi Lamido Ado Bayero; Turakin Kano, Nasir Ado Bayero; Sarkin Dawaki Tsakarigida, Aminu Ado Bayero; Wambai Kano, Alh. Abbass Sanusi; Galadima Kano, Tijjani Hashim; and a member of the board of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, Abdullahi Ado Bayero.

Investigation revealed that all the candidates are expected to be screened soon by a four-man team of kingmakers in the Emirate’s Council of State.

The kingmakers are Makama, Madaki, Sarkin Wawaki Mai Tuta and Sarkin Bai.

A top source, who spoke in confidence with our correspondent, said: “The race for the vacant stool  started immediately the death of Emir Ado Bayero was announced. We are talking of about 30 candidates.

“The late Emir had up to 70 children, including females. The jostle appears to be a straightforward battle between the Bayeros and Sanusis whose fathers were brothers.”

The source added that although the Emir appointed his son as Ciroman Kano (heir apparent), that might not translate into automatic succession.

The fate of the candidates, the source said, lies with the kingmakers, who will make recommendation to the Kano State Government.

Responding to a question, the source said: “The Emirate seeks a ruler who will consolidate on the unprecedented developments recorded during the reign of Ado Bayero.

“So, beyond being versed in the history and tradition of Kano Emirate, the new Emir is expected to be highly educated, morally upright, cool-headed, well-connected and with a tinge of international influence and a symbol of peace.

“This is why it is likely to be a battle royale between ex-CBN Governor and the children of the late Emir. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has intimidating credentials.

“For the first time, the kingmakers have blue-blooded candidates who are exposed and well-educated abroad.

Another source said those aspiring to the stool had been lobbying influential Kano leaders to prevail on the kingmakers to pick them for the vacant stool.