In a significant traditional ceremony held at the historic Kofar Kudu Palace, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, officially turbaned Jamilu Sani Umar as the new village head of Ganduje in Dawakin-Tofa Local Government Area of Kano State.
Jamilu, a direct nephew of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, is the son of the late Mallam Sani Umar Ganduje, who was the younger brother of the ex-governor. His installation as the new village head comes amid renewed interest in Kano’s traditional leadership dynamics, especially given the complex history between the emir and the former governor.
A History of Tension Revisited
The appointment is particularly noteworthy due to the past political rift between Emir Sanusi and former Governor Ganduje. Sanusi was dethroned in 2020 during Ganduje’s administration, a move that sparked controversy and drew national attention. However, following a shift in the state’s political leadership, Sanusi was reinstated as Emir in 2023, a decision that was widely welcomed by his supporters and traditional institutions.
While this turbaning could be interpreted through various political lenses, sources close to the Emirate have downplayed any political undertones, insisting that the process was purely customary and community-driven.
Traditional Authority and Community Backing
Speaking to Punch, a senior aide to the Emir, Muhammad Dallatu, explained that the appointment followed extensive consultations with both the district head and key elders within the Ganduje family.
“Yes, Jamilu Sani Umar has been turbaned as the new village head of Ganduje. The appointment was approved after a thorough consultation with the district head and elders from the Ganduje family,” Dallatu confirmed.
He also stressed that Jamilu was selected based on his personal merit, qualifications, and acceptance by the local community, adding that the Emirate followed established traditional protocols before reaching its decision.
“Jamilu was selected based on his qualifications and acceptance by the community. The Emirate consulted widely, including with members of the Ganduje family, before the final decision was made,” he added.
A Ceremony with Symbolism
The turbaning ceremony, held on Wednesday, attracted a large turnout from the Ganduje community, with many attendees expressing open support for the Emir. Observers noted that the event served not only as a celebration of cultural heritage but also as a subtle affirmation of the Emir's influence and legitimacy within Kano’s evolving traditional framework.
Ganduje's Silence on the Matter
When asked whether former Governor Ganduje had any involvement or gave his blessing to the appointment, Dallatu stated that there had been no communication from the former leader regarding the matter.
“He didn’t get involved or speak about it. We can’t say whether he approved of it or disapproved of it,” Dallatu said.
The installation of Jamilu Sani Umar as the village head of Ganduje underscores the enduring importance of traditional institutions in Northern Nigeria. While the appointment may stir political interpretations given the personalities involved, palace sources maintain it is rooted in heritage, community consensus, and traditional legitimacy.
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