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MUST READ: Seven Things You Should Know About Dethroned Emir Sanusi

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The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, was removed from his position on Monday after a long-running row with the state government.

The Secretary to the State Government, Usman Alhaji while making the announcement on Monday said the removal was in line with the recommendation of the Kano State Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Commission.

The state government also stated that the dethronement was part of its move to safeguard the “sanctity, culture, tradition, religion and prestige” of the Kano State Emirate which was established over a millennium ago.

Sanusi was also accused by the state government of disrespecting lawful instructions.

While the news of his dethronement continues to generate buzz all over the media and might stir debates in various quarters, there are certain things about the now exiled emir which many should know, as these things aid to shape a full narrative about his person.

Below are seven things you should know about the former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II.

  1. Outspoken and fearless

Muhammadu Sanusi was an outspoken and fearless monarch but did not begin to show these traits only upon the accession of the throne. Prior to his becoming Emir of Kano, Sanusi was known for speaking passionately about issues regarding the polity and economy of Nigeria.

Sanusi as a traditional ruler was not shy to delve into the politics of the day, he accused political and religious leaders in the north of not doing enough for the region, adding that the lackadaisical approach to governance within the region was a major contributing factor to the widening of the poverty gap between the mainly Muslim north and the majority-Christian south.

  1. A chip of the old block

Lamido Sanusi ascended the throne in 2014, taking over from his granduncle Ado Bayero. His grandfather, Muhammadu Sanusi I, was the 11th Emir of Kano from 1953 until 1963.

Like in his own case in 2020, Sanusi’s grandfather was deposed by his cousin Sir Ahmadu Bello. The reason for the dethronement was also similar, Sanusi like his granddad was accused of insubordination.

  1. An erudite scholar and banking guru

Born into a ruling class, son of a career diplomat who served as the Nigerian Ambassador to Belgium, China, and Canada, Sanusi went on to establish himself as an indispensable asset in the Nigeria banking and finance industry, rising from management roles in different banks to becoming the CEO of First Bank, one of Africa’s largest financial institutions.

After his education at the King’s College in Lagos, where he graduated in 1977, Sanusi proceeded to Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he received a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1981.

He later received a Master’s Degree in Economics two years later from the university and lectured at the faculty.

With his performance academically and his growth within the banking industry, it was no surprise when On the first of June 2009, Sanusi was nominated as governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

  1. Modern reformer

During his earlier role as central bank chief, Sanusi earned a reputation as a straight-talking modern-reformer, who was not afraid to speak out against corruption, even though there were some charges of graft against him, allegations which he denied.

Sanusi initiated several extensive banking reforms that were built around “enhancing the quality of banks, establishing financial stability, enabling healthy financial sector evolution and ensuring that the financial sector contributes to the real economy”.

He is credited with leading the central bank in rescuing top tier banks with N400 billion of public money and dismissed their chief executives. He also introduced a consolidation process which reduced the number of Nigerian banks through merger and acquisitions, in a bid to make them stronger and more accountable to depositors.

  1. Suspended whistleblower

In 2014, Sanusi was suspended as CBN Governor by President Goodluck Jonathan.

The suspension came after the former CBN Governor accused the state-run Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) of not remitting some $20 billion to state coffers.

Sanusi had written to Jonathan detailing that the NNPC had not remitted over $49.8 billion proceeds of crude oil sales. The NNPC responded that no money was missing thus leading to the constitution of a reconciliation committee whose findings were debated.

Unsatisfied with the reconciliation process, Sanusi brought the matter to the attention of the Senate. a forensic audit was carried out by PwC and the result poked holes in the arguments put up by the NNPC and the Ministry of petroleum, but no one else bore the brunt than the whistleblower himself.

  1. Controversial accession

There are some who believe that Sanusi’s willingness to become Emir of Kano was politically-motivated.

Those who champion this thought say Sanusi accepted the appointment of the throne in a bid to avoid fraud charges from his tenure at the Central Bank.

For some, the rightful heir to the throne was his cousin, and to this effect, some protested saying Sanusi was not the right one to ascend the throne.

Sanusi, however, was crowned Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II on 9 June 2014, as he became the Emir of Kano, he automatically became a leader of the Tijaniyya Sufi order, the second-most-important Muslim position in Nigeria after the Sultan of Sokoto, leader of the larger Qadiriyya Sufi order.

  1. Perceived as a dissident

During his time as Emir of Kano, many saw Sanusi as a dissident to Northern norms.

He received many criticisms from conservatives in the North, for making several comments on socio-political issues impacting the region.

Some of those comments that earned him criticisms include the calls for an end to child marriage, building more schools instead of mosques, and infrastructural development.

He also called for population planning and said that polygamy is increasing poverty in the region.

Also part of his calls were certain solutions proffered to solving the almajiri issue.

In November 2014, after Sanusi urged his followers to fight Boko Haram, the Great Mosque of Kano was bombed, with over 150 killed.

Abubakar Shekau, the leader of the insurgent group Boko Haram, accused Sanusi of deviating from Islam and threatened his life; Sanusi replied that he is “safe with Allah”, and likened Shekau’s extremist comments (describing Sufis as unbelievers) to those of the heretical Islamic preacher Maitatsine.

While on the throne of the Kano Emirate, Sanusi spoke out on government policies, breaking with royal tradition. He criticized the state government of misplaced priorities, and it is believed that this stirred the investigation into corrupt practices within the Emirate.

Though the investigation was later called off by the state legislature following intervention by the ruling class, the government headed by Ganduje went on to create a law that saw to the rise of four new Emirates, thereby receding the powers of Sanusi.

BIG STORY

Aare Adetola Emmanuelking Shines Bright As The Remo Day “Man Of Steeze” [PHOTOS]

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The Gateway Stadium, Sagamu was aglow yesterday, the 27th of December, 2024, as the maiden edition of Remo Day culminated in a grand rally celebrating the unity, culture, and progress of Remoland. Hosted by the revered Akarigbo of Remoland, the event brought together dignitaries from across the nation, including the Chief of Staff to the President of Nigeria, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, the esteemed Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun (MFR) and the first lady of the state, The Ewusi of Makun, HRH Oba Timothy Oyesola Akinsanya, ORUNAGBA II, Chairman of Adron Group and Otun Akile of Remoland Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, amongst others.

Aare Adetola Emmanuelking’s presence stood out in class as he brought unparalleled style, sophistication, and charm to the occasion. Dubbed the ” Remo Day Man of Steeze,” Aare Adetola made an unforgettable entrance, draped in an exquisite wine agbada adorned with intricate embroidery, accessorized with traditional coral beads, and crowned with a regal fila. His look, a masterclass in cultural elegance, radiated confidence and pride in Yoruba heritage, instantly earning him admiration from the gathered audience. Known for his charisma and commitment to the development of Remoland, Aare Adetola was the epitome of poise and grandeur as he engaged with other top dignitaries and attendees. From his interactions to his overall demeanor, every aspect of his presence reflected a deep connection to his roots, and an unyielding passion for community growth.

Communities from across Remoland including Epe, Makun, Iperu, Irolu, Emuren, Ogere, Ikenne, Ilara, Ode remo, Isara, Ipara, Ilishan, Soyindo, Ijagba, Ado, Ode lemo, Ibido, Idena, Ogijo, Atayo, Eposo, Idado, Latawa, Oko, Ipoji, Lowa ibu, Igbepa, Ijoku, Iraye, Ilupeju, Iraniken, Okeselu, Simawa, Ilaye, Iraye, Agura, Igode, Sotubo, Ariye , Araromi, Imushin, Imeji, Agbehinsa , and many more, converged at the Gateway Stadium to pay homage to the Akarigbo of Remoland, a revered symbol of unity and cultural pride. This act of respect and solidarity emphasized the deep-rooted connection between the people and their traditional ruler as they celebrated the remarkable growth and development of Remo. Among the many groups, Iyaniwura Base stood out under the distinguished leadership of Aare Adetola Emmanuelking. Following in his illustrious footsteps, the group brought a splash of vibrance to the event, dazzling attendees with their matching cultural attires that reflected the rich traditions of Remoland. Their coordinated elegance and enthusiastic homage added a memorable touch to the grand celebration.

The Remo Day celebration, themed “In Unity & Culture, We Thrive,” was more than a cultural showcase. It was a celebration of the strength and progress of Remoland, featuring colorful displays of traditional dance, drumming, and artwork. Amid the festivity, Aare Adetola’s magnetic personality and gallant appearance was a true highlight of the day. The Grand Rally provided a perfect backdrop for celebrating individuals who embody the spirit of Remo’s advancement. In Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, Remo found a true cultural icon, someone who not only lives the values of the community, but also inspires others to embrace and promote its legacy with pride and dignity.

The Remo Day celebrations may have concluded, but the image of Aare Adetola, standing tall in his resplendent attire, remains etched in the memories of attendees. Aare Adetola Olaonipekun Emmanuelking- a name synonymous with grace, culture, and unshakable pride in Remoland’s illustrious heritage. Indeed, the “Remo Day Man of Steeze” has set a standard that will resonate far beyond Remoland.

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BIG STORY

“My NGO Account Has Been Hacked, N160Million Diverted” — VeryDarkMan

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Popular activist and social critic, VeryDarkMan, has raised concerns about the hacking of his NGO account, which led to the diversion of N160 million.

In a video shared on his verified Instagram account on Friday, he revealed that the incident had left him feeling distressed in recent days.

He explained that the funds were stolen after hackers allegedly gained access to the NGO’s website. The compromised account, which initially contained N180 million, now holds only N20 million.

He mentioned that law enforcement agencies had tracked one of the suspects, resulting in an arrest.

To address the situation, he stated that the NGO’s app had been temporarily taken offline for maintenance to prevent further vulnerabilities.

He said, “For the past few days, I’ve not been myself. I am here with Officer Joe, and we are going to Jos. NGO money—somebody stole the money. Somebody hacked into the NGO website, and I don’t know how they did it. N180 million is missing, but thank God we have tracked the person, and we are on our way to Jos.

“They have arrested one person, and that is why I’m even saying it now. I’m excited, and the account has been put on PND. The account now has N20 million, while N160 million has been diverted to another account. We are currently going there to see how we can get the money back. I just want to update you people.

“I even had to shut down the app and put it on maintenance so that people will not really see what is going on, but let me just come out plain and tell everyone what is going on. Hopefully, we will get the money back.”

The NGO, which launched in October, gained significant attention after raising over N21 million within 24 hours of its inception.

The initiative, aimed at transforming Nigeria’s public education system, attracted support from prominent figures, including music producer Don Jazzy.

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Christmas Celebrations: Police Arrest 23 Suspected Armed Robbers, Hoodlums, Kidnapper, Recover Dangerous Weapons [PHOTOS]

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  • As IGP Commends Officers For Vigilance, Commitment To Safety

 

In furtherance of the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., to commands and formations to emplace unalloyed anti crime strategies towards ensuring adequate safety and security during this festive period, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force across several states in the country have successfully apprehended multiple groups of armed robbers, cultists and hoodlums targeting fun seekers and engaging in gangsterism during Christmas celebrations.

On the 25th of December 2024, at about 1am, the police operatives attached to Lagos State Command, received a distress call that a group of hoodlums armed with dangerous weapons was operating around the Safejo area of Amukoko, Lagos State. The swift response by the police operatives to the scene led to the arrest of 3 of the suspected hoodlums identified as Emmanuel Okoli ‘m’, 20 years, Ogunde Tejiri ‘m’, 20 years, and Emmanuel Orji ‘m’, 18 years, and also the recovery of the weapons they had used in carrying out robbery attacks on innocent funseekers in the area. The police have emplaced intensified searches to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang.

In a similar development, Police Operatives attached to Saminaka Division of the Kaduna State Command on 25th December 2024, at about 8pm, successfully apprehended one Sule Muhammad ‘m’, 25 years, who has been actively involved in multiple kidnapping incidents within the Saminaka area. Further investigation led to the recovery of a fabricated AK-47 rifle from the suspect. The suspect confessed to being a member of a notorious kidnapping gang who had been evading arrest since the arrest of other gang members on August 16, 2024, until his recent arrest on 25th December 2024. Following cooperation received from Muhammad, efforts are in top gear to apprehend other members of his gang and recover more arms and ammunition in their identified camp. Commendable efforts of the Nigeria Police Operatives have also been witnessed in states including Delta, Ogun Katsina, Benue, FCT and Imo, leading to the arrests of several suspects in various locations during the Christmas celebration period.

The IGP has commended the officers involved in these operations for their vigilance and commitment to public safety, highlighting their display of exemplary dedication in safeguarding our communities, especially during this joyful season. The IGP urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

The IGP further assures citizens that the Force is fully committed to creating a safe environment for everyone as they partake in the joy and cheer of the holiday season. As the celebrations continue, the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to protect all citizens and ensure that the spirit of festivities during this period remains unmarred by criminal activities.

 

ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,

FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

FORCE HEADQUARTERS,

ABUJA.

27TH DECEMBER 2024.

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