The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has criticized the federal government’s interference in state matters, especially those regarding traditional and chieftaincy affairs.
Sanusi stressed the importance of upholding constitutional principles and maintaining a clear separation of powers to ensure accountable governance.
Speaking during an interview with Vanguard, the monarch also stated that regionalism and a parliamentary system of government are not solutions to Nigeria’s problems.
He questioned the necessity of a bicameral legislature and the rationale behind appointing ministers from every state, even when not required.
He noted that this contributes to bureaucratic inefficiencies and does not necessarily serve the nation’s best interests.
Speaking further, the monarch asserted that regionalism would exacerbate the issues in the country rather than resolve existing tensions.
He said, “I think there are several things we can do to address those structures because at the end of the day, if you allow the state governors to run, the thing with devolution is we have 36 states; if only half of the governors are good, at least half of Nigeria has a good government.
“There is too much power at the centre, too much of the resources. The centre does not do primary education or primary healthcare, and that is where the vast majority of Nigerians are.
“Shouldn’t those resources come to the state? Instead of everybody going to Abuja, what is happening in Abuja? There are several issues that we need to look at. And also simple constitutionalism and federalism, just even the respect of separation of powers. If you take the example of what is happening in Kano today, chieftaincy matters are 100 per cent a state matter.”
