Former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, has publicly addressed Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano for the first time since his controversial removal from the throne in 2020.

Ganduje made the remark on Tuesday during the swearing-in of the new Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, at the Kano State Government House.

While delivering his address, the former governor greeted Sanusi and recognised him in his capacity as Chairman of the Kano State Council of Emirs — a move seen as a notable shift in tone after years of strained relations.

Sanusi was dethroned in March 2020 by the Ganduje administration over allegations including insubordination. He was subsequently replaced and relocated from Kano.

The situation, however, changed in 2024 when Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Sanusi as Emir following his election.