PDP Finally Congratulates Sanusi, Warns Him Against Partisan Politics

The ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has congratulated the new Emir of Kano, Malam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi on his emergence and turbaning, saying it will not play politics with the revered traditional institution.

The party’s final acceptance of the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor as the new Emir of Kano came more than 24 hours after it committed a huge blunder by rushing to congratulate another contender – Sanusi Ado Bayero – even when official announcement of the successor to the late Ado Bayero had not been made.

Apparently embarrassed by turn of events, the ruling PDP quickly withdrew its initial statement as it became glaring that Mr. Sanusi, who had a running battle with the Presidency and the Federal Government over alleged missing funds, had emerged Emir, over his closest rival, Mr. Ado Bayero.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh in a statement on Monday said the party “has an unflinching reverence for the traditional institution and in that regard extends the same reverence it had for the late Emir to Malam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi”.

It however said it expects the new Emir to remain non-partisan deserving of the exalted and revered office, like his predecessor.

“The PDP holds the office of the Emir of Kano in very high esteem. We, therefore, give the new Emir our prayers and urge him to ensure that the sanctity of the throne and the traditional institution are absolutely guarded and preserved.

“We are very much aware that his status has changed and we pray the Almighty Allah, who alone confers authority, to grant him the wisdom and good health to lead his people to peace and prosperity”.

Calling for calm in the ancient city of Kano following protests that greeted Sanusi’s emergence, the PDP urged the new Emir to take steps to unite his people and note that he is not the emir of any political party but that of the entire people of the Kano Emirate.