Emir Bayero Rejected Obasanjo’s Plane Over ‘Third Term’ Bid, Says Shekarau
Late Emir of kano, Ado Bayero
Alhaji Ado Bayero, the Emir of Kano who passed away yesterday, in 2006 rejected to fly an aircraft sent to fetch him to Abuja by former President Olusegun Obasanjo during his controversial bid for a third term in office, a former governor has disclosed.
Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, who is currently a ministerial nominee in President Goodluck Jonathan’s government, made the remark on Saturday at the Emir’s Palace, where hundreds of prominent Nigerians continue to troop in to offer their condolences to the Emirate.
He said Obasanjo told him he sent the plane to fly the traditional ruler in connection with his self-succession plan that was being widely criticized by Nigerians across the country at the time, but that the Emir rejected the invitation.
Shekarau, who holds the traditional title of Sardauna of Kano Emirate, described Alhaji Bayero as a man of truth and boldness.
“When I asked His Royal Highness about it, he said yes it happened and he (Obasanjo) called him to discuss his succession plan, he said he would not be part of it, since it was not the right thing.”
Obasanjo has yet to respond to Shekarau’s account of the incident.
By Saharareporters, New York
