JUST IN: Arewa Group Urges Bayero to Leave Kano for Peace
On Sunday, May 26, the Arewa Social Contract Initiative called on the dethroned emir of Kano, Aminu Bayero, to leave the city to restore peace. Following the introduction of new legislation that led to his dethronement along with four other first-class emirs, Bayero returned to Kano and is now staying at the Gidan Nasarawa palace, while Sanusi occupies the main palace, escalating tensions in the city.
At a press conference, Alhaji Sani Mahmoud Darma, the national chairman of the Arewa Social Contract Initiative, stated that the only solution to the ongoing conflict is for Bayero to leave Kano. Darma revealed that after thorough discussions among Arewa executives from the 19 northern states, they concluded that Bayero’s presence in Kano was the primary issue.
Darma explained: “After his dethronement, Bayero initially accepted the decision, left the palace, and departed Kano. However, external influences have since facilitated his return and an attempt to reclaim his position. If he believes his removal was unjust, he should pursue legal recourse from outside Kano rather than attempting to occupy the palace and risk inciting violence.”
He urged Bayero to reflect on the past and acknowledge his dethronement as an act of fate, advising him to leave Kano to prevent potential conflict.
Darma emphasized: “Sanusi faced a similar situation and accepted it. When Sanusi was dethroned and Bayero was appointed, Sanusi left Kano peacefully. Now that Bayero is in a similar position, he should act likewise, congratulate Sanusi, and leave Kano to maintain peace. If he seeks to contest his dethronement, he should do so from another state through the courts.”
The Arewa group strongly supports the new emir, Sanusi, citing Governor Abba Yusuf’s campaign promise to reinstate him, which garnered public approval and votes. Darma remarked that the governor’s actions align with the will of the people and the state’s legislative decisions, emphasizing that the Arewa members are pleased with Sanusi’s reinstatement.
He concluded, stating that the matter is a state affair, and expressed surprise over the involvement of a court order in the issue.
