The presidency has denied that President Muhammadu Buhari was directly or indirectly involved in dethroning Lamido Sanusi, as Emir of Kano.
The presidency stated this while reacting to the accusation of Rabiu Kwankwaso, who accused the president of being behind the ousting of the former Central Bank Governor.
Garba Shehu, the president’s spokesman on Wednesday denied any link involving his principal in the fued between the ousted emir and the state governor, Umar Ganduje.
Mr Ganduje said he removed the traditional ruler for criticising his administration in public.
Mr Shehu said the accusation by the former Kano State governor who appointed the traditional ruler, was politically motivated.
“President Muhammadu Buhari has no involvement whatsoever in the dethronement of HRH Muhammadu Sanusi II from the position of Emir of Kano,” a statement from the president spokesman read.
“All such insinuations are untrue, malicious and politically motivated.
“The President does not have a history of intervening in the affairs of any state in the country, unless the issue at hand is of national consequence. On such matters which impinge on national security, he has a duty of involvement as the law stipulates.
“As outlined in the Constitution, the appointment or removal of emirs and other traditional leaders is strictly within the jurisdiction of state governments.
“It is unfair and disingenuous of opposition politicians to try to link the situation in Kano State to the federal government and the Nigerian President.
“Although a retired General and fmr. Military Head of State, Pres. Buhari clearly understands that under the current democratic dispensation, the government at the centre cannot read instructions or twist the arms of all or any of the 36 state governments making up the federation.
“They all have their powers specified under the Constitution.
“President Buhari commends the people of Kano for keeping calm in the past few days of the dethronement announcement.
“He prays that the will of Allah will be done at all times, and that the emirate/state and its people continue to experience progress irrespective of who is on the throne,” the statement added.
