Citation: Suleiman, M and Adamu, A. U. (2026). “Political Influence and the Erosion of Traditional Authority in Selected Hausa Emirates” In Ɗunɗaye Journal of Hausa Studies, Vol. 04, No. 01, Pp. 106 – 116. www.doi.org/10.36349/djhs.2026.v04v01.014.
POLITICAL INFLUENCE AND THE
EROSION OF TRADITIONAL AUTHORITY IN SELECTED HAUSA EMIRATES
By
Musa Suleiman
Department of Hausa,
Aminu Kano College of Islamic and Legal Studies, Kano, Nigeria
and
Aisha Umar Adamu, PhD
Department of Nigerian Languages,
Northwest University, Kano, Nigeria
Abstract:
This study explores the increasing influence of politics on the
traditional institution of kingship in selected Hausa emirates, arguing that
political interference has gradually undermined the independence and cultural
integrity of the emirate system. Traditionally, Hausa kingship was rooted in
customs, values, and established traditions that promoted justice, respect,
legitimacy, and peaceful coexistence. However, the emergence of modern
political structures has altered these principles, leading to conflicts over
the appointment of emirs, the administration of emirate affairs, and the
preservation of traditional authority. The study is anchored on
Max Weber's Theory of Power and Authority (1917–1919), which provides a
framework for understanding the acquisition, exercise, and legitimacy of power
within society. A qualitative research design was adopted to examine the relationship
between politics and traditional leadership. Data were obtained through an
extensive review of books, journal articles, theses, dissertations, newspapers,
magazines, radio programmes, and other relevant documents. In addition,
interviews were conducted with scholars, traditional rulers, cultural experts,
and individuals knowledgeable about emirate administration. The research
focuses on the Kano, Zazzau, and Gwandu emirates because of their historical
significance and enduring contributions to governance and political development
in Hausaland. Findings reveal that political influence has increasingly shaped
the selection of emirs, affected decision-making within emirate councils, and
weakened the autonomy of traditional institutions. The study concludes that
excessive political involvement has contributed to instability and diminished
public confidence in traditional leadership. It therefore recommends measures
to safeguard the independence, dignity, and cultural heritage of Hausa emirates
while promoting constructive collaboration between traditional institutions and
democratic governments.
Keywords: Politics, Erosion,
Influence, Traditional Authority, Hausa Emirates.
1.0
Introduction
Kingship is one of the oldest systems of leadership that has
existed among the Hausa people long before the arrival of European colonial
rule. It served as a traditional means of governing society based on
established customs and cultural values that grew out of the social life of the
Hausa community.[1] In
this system, the king (Sarki) is regarded as the central leader responsible for
overseeing governance, justice, security, economic activities, and the
preservation of cultural traditions. Because of this, the institution of
kingship has always played a vital role in promoting peace, unity, and
development within society (Smith, 1960).
Traditionally, the appointment of a king was not based on personal
interest or political interference. Instead, it followed a well-structured
customary process involving kingmakers, senior district heads, and other key
stakeholders within the emirate. This system helped ensure that whoever became
king was a person of integrity, wisdom, and leadership ability. As a result,
kingship functioned not only as a political institution but also as a cultural
and traditional authority deeply rooted in the life of the Hausa people (Last,
1967).
However, the arrival of European colonial rule brought significant
changes to this system. The colonial administration introduced the policy of
Indirect Rule, through which traditional rulers were used as instruments of
governance under the colonial government. This arrangement gradually changed
the role of kings, as they became more like administrative representatives of
the colonial authority rather than independent traditional leaders as they were
before (Lugard, 1922). This marked the beginning of external influence on the
traditional institution of kingship.
After Nigeria gained independence, the introduction of party
politics further deepened changes within the traditional system. Politicians
began to exert influence over emirate affairs, particularly in the selection
and appointment of traditional rulers.[2] In
some cases, government authorities or political actors interfered directly in
the process of selecting or removing emirs, leading to disputes and conflicts
within communities (Paden, 1973).
As a result, in several Hausa emirates, politics has increasingly
become entangled with traditional leadership, thereby weakening long-standing
customs and cultural practices. This political interference has, at times, led
to division among community members, disputes over succession, and a decline in
the respect and dignity once associated with traditional institutions
(Barkindo, 1989).
Therefore, this study focuses on the following key areas:
a. Examining how politics has become a destructive influence
(“poison”) affecting the traditional system of kingship in some Hausa emirates.
b. Highlighting the impact of politics on the selection of rulers,
the administration of emirates, and the promotion of peace and unity in
society.
c. Identifying the changes that have occurred in the traditional
leadership system as a result of political influence, and suggesting ways to
protect the dignity and integrity of the institution from such interference.
1.1 Methodology
This study employed a qualitative research approach to
examine the influence of politics on traditional leadership in selected Hausa
emirates. The method was chosen because it is suitable for investigating
historical, cultural, and social issues through detailed descriptions and
interpretations rather than quantitative analysis. Data were collected from
both primary and secondary sources. Secondary sources included books,
academic journals, theses, dissertations, newspapers, magazines, and radio
programmes related to Hausa history, traditional leadership, and political
developments. Primary data were obtained through interviews with scholars,
historians, cultural experts, elders, and individuals closely associated with
emirate affairs, providing firsthand insights into the impact of politics on
traditional institutions. The collected information was analysed using descriptive
analysis to identify and interpret patterns of political influence on
traditional kingship. The study is limited to the Kano, Zazzau, and Gwandu
emirates, selected because of their historical significance and prominent roles
in the political and administrative development of Hausaland. These emirates
serve as representative case studies for understanding how political interference
has affected the traditional institution of kingship. Overall, the qualitative
approach enabled the researcher to obtain rich and reliable data for assessing
the relationship between politics and traditional leadership in Hausa society.
1.2 Theoretical Framework
This study is anchored on Max Weber’s Theory of Power and
Authority (1917–1919), which explains how authority is acquired,
exercised, and accepted within society. Weber identified three forms of
authority: traditional authority, based on customs and inherited
practices; legal-rational authority, founded on laws and formal
institutions; and charismatic authority, derived from an individual’s
personal qualities and influence (Weber, 1922). The theory is particularly
relevant because the Hausa emirate system represents traditional authority,
while modern political institutions embody legal-rational authority. The
interaction between these forms of authority has transformed the traditional
kingship institution, leading to political interference in the appointment,
removal, and administration of traditional rulers (Weber, 1919; Weber, 1922).
1.3 Definition of Key Concepts
In this section, an effort is made to explain the meanings of the
key terms upon which this research topic is built. This is done in order to
provide clearer understanding and to properly guide the direction of the study.
The clarification of these terms helps the reader to better grasp the focus and
intent of the research.
Among the important concepts explained in this study are the
following:
1.3.1 Politics (Siyasa)
The word siyasa originally comes from Arabic,
where it generally refers to governance, gentleness, or showing care and
consideration (Lawali and Ibrahim, 2019). The Oxford English Dictionary defines
politics as the process through which people govern themselves, often within a
democratic system. Similarly, the Hausa Dictionary (2006:397) describes
politics as the management of public affairs through consultation,
participation, and the expression of people’s opinions and advice. It can also
refer to strategies or skills used in dealing with people and managing social
relationships.
Based on these explanations, this study understands politics as
the process through which a community selects one of its members to become a
leader who represents them, guides them, protects their interests, and speaks
on their behalf in matters concerning the society they belong to.
1.3.2 Kingship (Sarauta)
Bargery (1934:905) defines sarauta as any
official position or the domain of a ruler. In other words, it refers to any
position of authority that is specifically reserved for a traditional ruler or
king. Gusau (1988:24) views kingship as the leadership of a group of people
aimed at safeguarding their religion, managing their political affairs, and
ensuring their overall welfare. This includes improving their economic
conditions and providing better ways of living and carrying out daily
activities.[3] Similarly,
Gaya (1998:10) describes kingship as the administration of governance over
subjects without discrimination, while protecting their rights and ensuring
their freedom and wellbeing. Gulbi (2000) presents kingship as an inherited
traditional system practiced by both Hausa and non-Hausa societies, where a
leader is chosen from among the people to guide them and ensure justice,
especially in resolving disputes and protecting the rights of individuals when
necessary. The Hausa Dictionary of Bayero University (2006:391) defines sarauta as
a feminine noun referring to titles of traditional leadership, particularly
those associated with customary rulership. Muhammad (2020:10) defines kingship
as governance, leadership, or authority based on a system that is accepted and
recognized by the people.
Based on these perspectives, this study understands kingship as
the leadership of a community through the protection of lives and property,
provision of security, management of economic and social affairs,
administration of justice and reconciliation, as well as safeguarding the
rights of the people and addressing their everyday needs.
1.3.3 Poison (Guba)
In its literal sense, guba refers to a substance
or chemical that is harmful or toxic, which can cause illness or even death
when consumed by a human being or animal. This explanation is supported by
Hausa dictionaries and general linguistic usage. Bargery (1934) defines guba as
“poison,” meaning any substance that can destroy life when eaten or swallowed.
Similarly, the Hausa Dictionary (2006) explains guba as
a toxic or harmful substance capable of killing or causing serious harm to
living organisms.
Based on these definitions, this study understands guba as
any dangerous substance or chemical that can damage the body or lead to death
when it enters the system through eating, drinking, or any other means of
exposure. This includes poisons from plants, animals, and man-made chemical
substances.
1.4 The Influence of Politics in Kano, Zazzau and Gwandu Emirates
This study shows that politics has played a significant role in
bringing changes to the traditional system of kingship in some Hausa emirates.
In certain situations, political influence has reached a level where it has
caused conflicts and, in some cases, even led to the removal of traditional
rulers from their thrones.
This section explains how such political influence has been
experienced in three major Hausa emirates: Kano, Zazzau, and Gwandu.
1.4.1 Political Influence in the Kano Emirate
The Kano Emirate has experienced significant political
influence from the colonial era to the present, making it one of the clearest
examples of political interference in traditional leadership. During British
colonial rule, the policy of Indirect Rule reduced the autonomy of
emirs by giving colonial authorities the power to appoint or remove traditional
rulers (Lugard, 1922). After independence, party politics further intensified
government involvement in emirate affairs, particularly in the selection and
administration of emirs (Smith, 1960).
A notable example is the removal of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II
in 2020 by the Kano State Government under Governor Abdullahi Umar
Ganduje, following allegations of insubordination, conflicts with the
government, and criticism of state policies.[4] Prior
to his removal, the Kano Emirate was divided into five emirates, a move that
reduced the authority of the Emir of Kano (Paden, 1973). Aminu Ado
Bayero was subsequently appointed as emir. However, in 2024, the
administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf repealed the law establishing the
additional emirates and reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II. This decision triggered
legal disputes and public controversy over the rightful occupant of the throne
Paden, 1973).
The Kano experience demonstrates that political decisions and
government policies have significantly influenced the appointment, removal, and
administration of traditional rulers. It further shows that changes in
political leadership can reshape traditional institutions, weaken their
autonomy, and create conflicts within the emirate system.
1.4.2 Political Influence in the Zazzau Emirate
The Zazzau Emirate has experienced increasing political
influence since the colonial era, when the British introduced Indirect
Rule, reducing the autonomy of traditional rulers (Last, 1967). After Nigeria’s
independence, political actors continued to influence emirate affairs,
particularly in the selection of emirs and the administration of traditional
institutions.
A major example is the succession crisis following the death
of Emir Shehu Idris in September 2020. Although the selection of an emir
traditionally rests with kingmakers and the ruling houses, Governor Nasir
Ahmad El-Rufai appointed Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli from
the Mallawa royal house, citing the need to restore rotational
succession after more than a century of exclusion. While the appointment was
historically significant, it generated controversy, with some royal families
and stakeholders alleging political interference in the selection process.
Rival candidates challenged the appointment in court, leading to legal disputes
and divisions within the emirate (Smith, 1960).
Since Governor Uba Sani assumed office in 2023,
discussions have continued over possible reforms to emirate laws, government
traditional leadership relations, and the future structure of the Zazzau
Emirate.[5] Despite
these debates, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli remains the Emir of Zazzau.[6]
The Zazzau case demonstrates that politics has become an important
factor in traditional leadership, particularly in succession and governance. It
highlights how political involvement can influence royal selection, intensify
internal disputes, and reshape traditional institutions under Nigeria’s modern
democratic system (Last, 1967,; Smith, 1960).
1.4.3 Political Influence in the Gwandu Emirate
The Gwandu Emirate, a major institution of the Sokoto Caliphate,
has historically exercised significant religious and administrative authority
in Northern Nigeria (Last, 1967). However, colonial rule introduced government
influence into the appointment and administration of traditional rulers, and
political involvement continued after Nigeria’s independence.
A major example is the succession crisis following the death of
Emir Haruna Rashid in 1995, when Al-Mustapha Haruna Jokolo became Emir of
Gwandu. Although he initially sought to govern according to Islamic and
traditional principles, tensions later developed between him, the Kebbi State
Government, and influential stakeholders. The conflict intensified in 2005
after Jokolo publicly criticized certain federal government policies. He was
subsequently deposed by the Kebbi State Government under Governor Adamu Aliero,
a move widely viewed as politically motivated.
Following his removal, Muhammadu Ilyasu Bashar was appointed as
the new Emir, generating controversy because many believed political
considerations had overridden traditional procedures. Jokolo challenged his
deposition in court, leading to a legal battle that lasted nearly two decades.
While lower courts at times ruled in his favour, the case eventually reached
the Supreme Court, which in 2025 upheld Ilyasu Bashar’s position as Emir on
procedural grounds.
The Gwandu experience demonstrates how politics can strongly
affect traditional leadership, particularly in matters of succession,
authority, and governance. It also shows that disputes over traditional
rulership can extend beyond the palace into the political and judicial arenas,
thereby reshaping the functioning of emirate institutions (Last, 1967).
1.5 The Corrosive Influence of Politics on Selected Hausa Emirates
In this study, politics is described as a “poison” that has
affected traditional kingship in some Hausa emirates due to the strong
influence of modern political systems on the indigenous structure of
governance. Traditionally, kingship in Hausaland was based on custom, history,
and hereditary succession. However, the involvement of politics has introduced
several challenges and changes to this long-established system. The following
are some of the reasons for this perspective:
1.5.1 Government and Political Interference
Government and political interference has become a major factor
influencing traditional leadership in Hausa emirates. Although the appointment
of emirs traditionally follows established customs involving kingmakers and
royal families, modern state laws now give governments the authority to approve
or confirm these appointments. In practice, this legal role has sometimes
expanded into direct political influence over the selection and removal of
traditional rulers (Paden, 1973; Mamdani, 1996).
The Kano Emirate illustrates this trend through the
appointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II and his subsequent removal in 2020
by the Kano State Government, an action widely associated with political
disagreements (Paden, 1973). Similarly, in the Zazzau Emirate, the
appointment of Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli in 2020 generated controversy, with
critics alleging that political considerations influenced the traditional
succession process (Smith, 1960). In the Gwandu Emirate, the deposition
of Al-Mustapha Haruna Jokolo in 2005 and the appointment
of Muhammadu Ilyasu Bashar further demonstrated the extent of
government involvement in traditional institutions, resulting in prolonged
legal disputes.
These cases show that political actors increasingly shape
traditional leadership through appointments, removals, and legal interventions.
While governments justify their actions under constitutional and statutory
powers, such involvement often creates public controversy, weakens the autonomy
of traditional institutions, and alters long-established succession practices.
Consistent with Mahmood Mamdani’s argument that colonial and
post-colonial governments integrated traditional rulers into the state
political system, the findings suggest that Hausa traditional institutions have
become increasingly vulnerable to political influence and government control
(Mamdani, 1996).
1.5.2 Conflicts in Traditional Rulership Succession
Political involvement in the selection of traditional rulers has
increasingly generated conflicts within royal families and traditional
institutions in Hausa emirates. Traditionally, the succession of emirs was
determined by kingmakers and guided by established customs, cultural values,
and hereditary principles, ensuring that leadership remained independent of
political influence (Last, 1967; Smith, 1960). However, the introduction of
colonial administration and modern democratic governance enabled governments
and political actors to influence succession processes, often leading to
disputes and controversy.
In the Kano Emirate, the removal of Emir Muhammadu
Sanusi II in 2020 and subsequent succession disputes demonstrated how
political disagreements can disrupt the traditional system of selecting rulers
and create divisions within the royal family and the wider community (Paden,
1973). Similarly, the Zazzau Emirate experienced controversy
following the appointment of Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli in 2020, with
allegations that political interests influenced the decision rather than the
customary recommendations of kingmakers (Last, 1967). In the Gwandu
Emirate, political interference has also affected succession, particularly
during the deposition of Al-Mustapha Haruna Jokolo and the
appointment of Muhammadu Ilyasu Bashar, highlighting the growing role of
government in traditional leadership matters (Barkindo, 1989).
These examples demonstrate that political interference has
weakened the traditional succession process by encouraging rivalry among royal
families, increasing litigation, and undermining the autonomy of traditional
institutions. Consequently, succession disputes in Hausa emirates have become
increasingly influenced by political interests rather than solely by
established customs and traditional procedures (Last, 1967; Smith, 1960; Paden,
1973; Barkindo, 1989).
1.5.3 Social Division within the Community
Political interference in traditional kingship has increasingly
contributed to social division within Hausa communities by
encouraging people to support traditional rulers based on political
affiliations rather than shared cultural values. Traditionally, the institution
of kingship served as a unifying force that promoted peace, social cohesion, and
stability. However, political involvement in the selection and administration
of traditional rulers has weakened this role, leading to disagreements and
reduced public confidence in traditional institutions (Paden, 1973; Smith,
1960).
In the Kano Emirate, the removal of Emir Muhammadu
Sanusi II in 2020 divided the community between supporters of the
government and supporters of the Emir, creating tensions that affected peaceful
coexistence (Paden, 1973). Similarly, in the Zazzau Emirate, allegations
of political influence in the appointment of Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli led
to divisions among royal families and community members, with some questioning
the fairness of the traditional selection process (Last, 1967). The Gwandu
Emirate has experienced comparable challenges, as political support for
rival succession candidates has generated disputes and weakened unity within
the emirate (Barkindo, 1989).
Overall, the findings indicate that political involvement in
traditional leadership has fostered factionalism, intensified succession
disputes, and undermined the traditional institution’s role as a symbol of
unity and social harmony. Consequently, communities have become increasingly
polarized along political and royal lines, reducing trust in traditional
leadership and threatening peaceful coexistence (Paden, 1973; Smith, 1960;
Last, 1967; Barkindo, 1989).
1.5.4 Decline in the Prestige of Traditional Rulership
Political interference has contributed to a decline in the
prestige and independence of traditional rulership in Hausa society.
Traditionally, emirs are regarded as custodians of culture, promoters of peace,
and symbols of unity who are expected to remain above partisan politics.
However, increasing political involvement in the appointment, removal, and
administration of traditional rulers has weakened public confidence in the
institution and created the perception that traditional leadership is
influenced by political interests rather than customary authority (Paden, 1973;
Smith, 1960).
The Kano Emirate exemplifies this trend through the
removal of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II in 2020 and the appointment
of Aminu Ado Bayero, events that generated widespread public debate and
reinforced the perception that political considerations could determine
traditional leadership (Paden, 1973). Likewise, in the Zazzau Emirate, the
appointment of Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli after the death of Emir Shehu Idris
attracted criticism from sections of the royal family and the public, with
allegations that politics influenced the succession process (Last, 1967). In
the Gwandu Emirate, the deposition of Al-Mustapha Haruna
Jokolo in 2005 and the prolonged legal dispute that followed further
strengthened the perception that government authorities exercise considerable
influence over traditional institutions (Barkindo, 1989).
Overall, the findings indicate that political interference has
diminished the dignity, neutrality, and public esteem of traditional rulership.
As traditional institutions become increasingly associated with political
conflicts and government decisions, their historical role as impartial
custodians of culture and community unity is gradually weakened (Paden, 1973;
Smith, 1960; Last, 1967; Barkindo, 1989).
1.5.5 Use of Traditional Rulership for Political Votes
Traditional rulers have increasingly become important actors in
electoral politics because of their influence and respected status within Hausa
society. Politicians often seek the support of emirs to enhance their
popularity, mobilize voters, and gain political legitimacy during elections.
According to Max Weber’s Theory of Traditional Authority, the legitimacy
of traditional rulers is rooted in long-standing customs and public respect,
making their endorsement a valuable political asset (Weber, 1922).
The Kano Emirate provides a notable example, where
political developments surrounding the removal of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi
II and the appointment of Aminu Ado Bayero reinforced
perceptions that traditional institutions could be used to advance political
interests. Given the Emir’s considerable influence, politicians often seek
close ties with the palace to shape public opinion and electoral outcomes
(Paden, 1973). Similar concerns emerged in the Zazzau
Emirate following the appointment of Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, where
allegations of political influence suggested that relationships between
political leaders and traditional rulers could be used to strengthen political
support (Last, 1967). In the Gwandu Emirate, the deposition of Al-Mustapha
Haruna Jokolo and the appointment of Muhammadu Ilyasu
Bashar further illustrated how political conflicts can encourage
politicians to align with traditional institutions to consolidate their
influence (Barkindo, 1989).
The findings indicate that the increasing involvement of
traditional rulers in political processes has blurred the distinction between
traditional authority and partisan politics. This trend risks undermining the
neutrality of traditional institutions and may reduce public confidence in
their role as impartial custodians of culture and community leadership (Weber,
1922; Paden, 1973; Last, 1967; Barkindo, 1989).
1.5.6 Politics as a Cause of Traditional Leadership Conflicts
The study reveals that political involvement has become a major
cause of traditional leadership conflicts in Hausa emirates,
particularly during the appointment and removal of emirs. Although succession
disputes have existed historically, modern political interference has
intensified their frequency and severity through government intervention,
political patronage, and support for preferred candidates (Paden, 1973). This
has increasingly shifted traditional succession from a purely customary process
to one influenced by political interests.
In the Kano Emirate, the removal of Emir Muhammadu
Sanusi II in 2020 and subsequent succession disputes illustrate how
political disagreements between traditional rulers and government authorities
can generate prolonged conflicts and divide communities along political lines
(Paden, 1973; Smith, 1960). Similarly, in the Zazzau Emirate, political
influence in the appointment of Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli created tensions
among royal families and stakeholders, with many questioning the fairness of
the traditional selection process (Last, 1967). In the Gwandu Emirate, the
deposition of Al-Mustapha Haruna Jokolo and the involvement of
government authorities in succession matters further demonstrate how political
interests can override customary practices and fuel disputes within traditional
institutions (Barkindo, 1989).
The findings indicate that political interference has transformed
traditional leadership conflicts from internal succession issues into broader
political and legal disputes. This has weakened social cohesion, increased
rivalry among stakeholders, and undermined the stability and legitimacy of
traditional institutions in Hausa society (Paden, 1973; Smith, 1960; Last,
1967; Barkindo, 1989).
1.5.7 Decline of Traditional Authority in Kingship
The study finds that modern politics and state governance
have significantly reduced the traditional authority of emirs in
Hausa society. Historically, emirs exercised extensive powers over succession,
dispute resolution, religious affairs, and community administration based on
customary legitimacy, a form of authority that Max Weber describes
as traditional authority (Weber, 1947). However, increasing
government involvement has limited the autonomy of traditional rulers and made
them more dependent on political approval.
In the Kano Emirate, the decline of traditional
authority began during the colonial era with the introduction of Indirect
Rule, which placed emirate administration under colonial supervision (Lugard,
1922). This trend continued after independence, as illustrated by the removal
of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II in 2020, demonstrating the government's
ability to influence traditional leadership (Paden, 1973). Similarly, in
the Zazzau Emirate, political intervention in the selection of emirs and
the resolution of succession disputes has weakened the traditional independence
of the institution (Smith, 1960). In the Gwandu Emirate, colonial and
post-colonial political systems have also reduced the emir’s autonomy by
allowing government authorities to play a greater role in succession and
governance (Barkindo, 1989).
1.6 Discussion of Findings
The findings of this study are best explained through Max
Weber’s Theory of Power and Authority, which distinguishes between traditional,
legal-rational, and charismatic authority (Weber, 1922). The study reveals a
growing interaction and often conflict between traditional authority,
represented by the emirate institution, and legal-rational authority,
represented by the modern state. Political involvement in the appointment,
removal, and administration of emirs in Kano, Zazzau, and Gwandu demonstrates
how state authority increasingly influences traditional institutions, reducing
their autonomy (Weber, 1922). The findings further show that succession
processes, once determined solely by kingmakers and customary practices, are
now shaped by political interests, resulting in disputes, legitimacy crises,
and weakened public confidence in traditional leadership (Paden, 1973; Last,
1967; Barkindo, 1989). Although political interference has reduced the
independence of emirs, traditional authority remains culturally significant as
emirs continue to serve as custodians of Hausa culture, mediators, and symbols
of unity. Overall, the study concludes that Hausa emirates have evolved into a
hybrid system in which traditional authority coexists with, and is increasingly
influenced by, modern political structures, creating ongoing institutional and
leadership challenges (Weber, 1922).
1.7 Conclusion
The study concludes that politics has become a major force
shaping traditional kingship in the Kano, Zazzau, and Gwandu
emirates. While these emirates have historically served as centres of cultural,
religious, and political authority, colonialism and modern democratic
governance have increased government involvement in traditional leadership (Paden,
1973; Last, 1967). The findings show that political interference extends beyond
the appointment of emirs to the broader administration of emirate affairs,
often resulting in succession disputes, social divisions, and declining public
confidence in traditional institutions. Cases such as the Kano succession
disputes, the Zazzau emirate crisis, and the deposition of Al-Mustapha
Haruna Jokolo in Gwandu illustrate how political interests have
increasingly influenced what were once purely customary processes (Barkindo,
1989). The study therefore argues that politics can act as a subtle corrosive
force on traditional leadership when government authority overrides customary
practices. It recommends strengthening legal and institutional frameworks to
protect the autonomy of traditional institutions, ensure that succession
follows established customs with minimal political interference, and preserve the
role of emirs as symbols of peace, unity, and cultural heritage in Hausa
society (Weber, 1922)
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[1] Suleiman, M. (2025). Sauye-Sauyen Zamani a
Wasu Sarautun Sana’o’in Gargajiya da Ayyukansu a Garin Kano. Kundin Digiri na
Biyu, Sashen Koyar da Harsunar Nijeriya. Sakkwato. Jami’ar Usmanu Ɗanfodiyo.
[2] Suleiman, M. & Sani, A-U (2025). From
Heritage to Mordern Influence: Changing Criteria in the Confertment of
Occupational Titles in Kano. Global Academic Journal Humanities and
Social sciences. Vol-7, ISS-6 pp-242-248.
[3] Gusau, S. M.(1988). Waƙoƙin Makaɗan Fada:
Sigoginsu da Yanayinsu, Musamman A Ƙasar Sakkwato. Kundin Digiri na Uku (PhD),
Sashe Koyar da Harsunan Nijeriya. Kano: Jami’ar Bayero.
[4] A clear example of this political influence is the deposition of
Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II in 2020. The Kano State Government, under Governor
Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, removed him from office. The reasons given included:
1. Allegations of insubordination and failure to attend certain
government meetings.
2. Ongoing tension between the Emir and the state government.
3. Accusations of criticism against government policies (Daily Post).
[5] These include:
a. Possible review of emirate laws and regulations.
b. Ongoing tensions between some traditional leaders and government
authorities.
c. Rumours concerning potential changes within the emirate structure.
[6] If this situation continues, the study anticipates three possible
outcomes:
i. Politics will continue to have a strong influence on traditional
leadership.
ii. Internal royal conflicts may increase with political involvement.
iii. Traditional leadership systems will continue to evolve under
modern democratic governance.
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