The passing of Alhaji Abbas Sanusi, the Galadiman Kano and longest-serving member of the Kano Emirate Council, has left a profound impact on the political landscape of Kano State. The respected elder statesman died on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the age of 92, following a prolonged illness.
The funeral, held at the residence of the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, saw an unprecedented gathering of political figures from opposing factions, temporarily setting aside their differences to honor the revered leader.
Among the dignitaries present were Abdullahi Abbas, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano and son of the deceased, alongside Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin. Also in attendance was Sarkin Dawaki Babba, Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, known for his legal challenge against the dissolution of the Kano Emirate and the dethronement of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero. Prominent APC leader Musa Iliyasu Kwankwaso also paid his respects.
On the opposite side of the political divide were leaders from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), including former Governor and NNPP leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, his deputy Aminu Abdussalam, and other key government officials.
The sight of political rivals exchanging pleasantries and uniting in grief came as a surprise to many residents. Speaking at the event, Abdullahi Abbas expressed his gratitude to the Kano State government for their presence and support, saying, “Indeed, I have been shown great generosity by the Kano State government, His Excellency the Governor, his Deputy, and other government officials. I sincerely appreciate it. May Allah preserve our bond.”
The unexpected show of solidarity was captured in a viral video circulating on social media, where Sarkin Dawaki Babba, Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, was seen holding Governor Yusuf’s hand while offering prayers and blessings.
While some residents expressed hope that this rare moment of unity would foster lasting peace, others remained skeptical. “I was shocked to see Abdullahi Abbas and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf conversing respectfully. I hope this unity lasts for the progress of Kano State,” said Ibrahim Sa’id, a local attendee.
However, some youth activists remained critical of the state’s political divisions, attributing past crises to former Governors Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who is now the National Chairman of the APC.
Political analysts have described the funeral of Galadiman Kano as a defining moment, demonstrating that the bond of tradition and respect can momentarily transcend deep-rooted political rivalries. Whether this newfound unity will endure remains to be seen, but the gathering at the funeral has undoubtedly left a mark on the history of Kano’s political scene.
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