In a significant development within Kano’s traditional leadership hierarchy, the Kano Emirate Council has officially revoked the prestigious Waziri of Kano title from former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Usman Alhaji.
The announcement was made through an official statement issued by the Emirate Council late Wednesday, citing undisclosed reasons related to the council’s internal review and commitment to preserving the sanctity of traditional institutions.
“The Kano Emirate wishes to inform the public that Alhaji Usman Alhaji has ceased to hold the title of Waziri of Kano with immediate effect,” the terse statement read. It added that the decision was reached following consultations with key palace stakeholders.
The Waziri title, historically one of the most revered in the Kano Emirate system, serves as the principal adviser to the Emir and holds both ceremonial and political influence within the region.
Alhaji Usman, a seasoned bureaucrat and former commissioner, was appointed Waziri during the reign of the dethroned Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II. His removal comes amid what analysts describe as a broader restructuring of the Kano traditional leadership under the restored Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, who returned to the throne in May 2024 after a dramatic reversal of his 2020 dethronement.
Palace insiders, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that the decision may be linked to ongoing efforts to realign the emirate’s leadership structure in line with Sanusi’s renewed vision for a more reformist and depoliticized institution.
“The restoration of the Emir has come with a re-evaluation of titles and those who hold them. The goal is to ensure that every titleholder truly represents the values and expectations of the Emirate,” one source said.
Alhaji Usman is yet to issue a public response to the revocation as of press time.
The move has stirred political and traditional circles in Kano, with some viewing it as a continuation of the Emir’s assertive leadership style, while others see it as a signal of a possible fallout between the palace and certain political actors from previous administrations.
Observers note that the Emirate’s recent actions point to a recalibration of authority and loyalty within the ancient city, as the institution reclaims its traditional autonomy in the aftermath of political interference in recent years.
As reactions continue to pour in, the Kano Emirate is expected to announce a new Waziri in the coming weeks, a decision that will likely reflect the current leadership’s commitment to institutional stability and cultural integrity.
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