Former Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has said only the Supreme Court of Nigeria can determine the fate of Muhammadu Sanusi II in the ongoing emirship dispute, noting that any eventual ruling will be implemented by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in line with the rule of law.

Ganduje made the clarification while reacting to reports alleging that he had endorsed Sanusi as Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Chiefs.

In a statement signed by his Chief of Staff and former Commissioner for Information, Comrade Muhammad Garba, Ganduje described the reports as a misinterpretation. He explained that his reference to Sanusi by his traditional title during the swearing-in ceremony of the Deputy Governor was merely a matter of courtesy and protocol.

“It is important to clarify that what happened was simply an expression of respect in a public gathering. It should not be misconstrued as an endorsement,” he said.

He stressed that the emirship tussle remains sub judice, cautioning that public commentary must be handled carefully to avoid actions that could amount to contempt of court.

The former governor recalled that the Court of Appeal had earlier directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the final determination of the case.

“The subsisting legal position recognises Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano and Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 14th Emir, pending the final judgment of the Supreme Court,” he explained.

Ganduje further emphasised that, as a former governor, he has no constitutional authority to endorse or reject any claimant to the emirship, noting that the matter rests entirely with the judiciary and, subsequently, the state government.

He regretted that the issue had been unnecessarily amplified by sections of the media, adding that what was a routine acknowledgment of established protocol was blown out of proportion.

“The interpretation being given to the remark is clearly exaggerated. I urge all parties to exercise restraint and await the Supreme Court judgment expected in April next year,” he said.