The Kano State government has responded to claims that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf snubbed the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, during the Sallah durbar at Government House. According to a statement signed by the governor's spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the claim is false and unfounded.
The statement explained that Governor Yusuf was in Lagos attending a strategic meeting of Nigerian governors at the time of the Hawan Nasarawa, which coincided with the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. The governor had formally communicated with the Emir and directed the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly to receive him on his behalf.
Senior government functionaries were delegated to represent the governor where scheduling conflicts arose. The governor attended the Eid prayer led by the Emir of Kano and participated in the Hawan Daushe at Gaya Emirate.
The Kano State government has urged the public to disregard the report and rely on credible sources for accurate information. The relationship between the Kano State Government and the Kano Emirate Council remains cordial, respectful, and anchored on mutual commitment to sustaining peace, unity, and development in Kano State.
The Kano State government's denial of snubbing the Emir of Kano is a welcome development, but it raises questions about the governor's communication strategy. The fact that the governor was in Lagos attending a meeting of Nigerian governors while the Emir was hosting the Sallah durbar at Government House is a scheduling conflict that could have been managed better. The governor's decision to delegate senior officials to represent him at the durbar is a testament to his commitment to maintaining a good relationship with the Kano Emirate Council. However, the public deserves to know more about the governor's absence and why he was not present at the durbar. The Kano State government must do better in communicating with the public and providing accurate information to avoid unnecessary tension and speculation.
