The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has underscored the role of traditional institutions in nation-building and good governance, saying he does not require constitutional backing to advise the president or state governors on national issues.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Sanusi said his authority to offer counsel to constituted authorities derives from his position as a leader of the people.
“Do I need to be told to advise the President? Do I need the Constitution to tell me that if I think there is something the country needs, I should go to the President and say, ‘Mr President, I think this is wrong?’” he said.
“I don’t need the Constitution. I don’t need the Constitution to tell the governor that I think this is what we should be doing. I get that authority from being a leader of the people.”
Sanusi noted that while some people believe the advisory role of traditional rulers should be explicitly stated in the Constitution, such views overlook evolving political realities.
“I know there are people who think that we need to have something in the Constitution. What is in the Constitution is that traditional rulers are there to advise us. We respect that the governor has executive authority; times have moved,” he added.
The Emir also stressed the need for inclusive political participation, calling for greater involvement of women in nation-building and governance processes.
