By Mo. Hanif
Gaya, one of the five emirates affected by the recent repeal of the Kano Emirates Council Law, has become a hotspot for protests. Demonstrators have taken to the streets to voice their discontent with the NNPP-controlled House of Assembly's decision to dismantle the additional emirates established under former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
The law, which facilitated the dethronement of Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II in 2020, was repealed and signed by Governor Abba Yusuf on Thursday. This action led to the dissolution of the Rano, Gaya, Karaye, and Bichi emirates. The governor also ordered the current monarchs, including Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, Emir of Gaya, to transfer authority to Comrade Abdulsalam Gwarzo, the Deputy Governor in charge of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
According to residents speaking to Daily Trust, the Emir of Gaya vacated his palace quietly at midnight on Thursday. Although there were no immediate signs of violence or resistance due to the heavy presence of armed security personnel, discontent simmered among the populace. Abubakar Shuaibu, a local resident, noted that the community was unhappy with the governor's decision.
The situation escalated on Sunday morning when large numbers of residents took to the streets to protest the dissolution. Brandishing placards and chanting anti-government slogans, the protesters decried the move as unjust and politically motivated.
Further details on the unfolding situation will be provided as they become available.
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