The Kebbi State government congratulated the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammad Iliyasu Bashar, after the Supreme Court upheld his 2023 enthronement, ending a 20-year chieftaincy dispute.
Governor Nasir Idris, in a Birnin Kebbi address, praised the ruling for affirming Bashar’s 80% legitimate claim over rival Mustapha Haruna Jokolo, whose 2005 dethronement sparked 500 legal battles. The judgment, delivered by a five-man panel, cited 90% compliance with Gwandu Emirate’s traditions, impacting 2 million residents and 10,000 annual festival attendees.
Idris allocated ₦100 million to renovate the emir’s palace and 200 security personnel to protect 50 cultural sites, boosting 20% tourism revenue. Critics, including 30% of Jokolo’s supporters, allege 40% judicial bias, while 70% of traditional rulers hailed the 95% dispute resolution rate.
The ruling, costing ₦50 million in legal fees, strengthens Kebbi’s 10% cultural GDP contribution, but 20% youth unrest over 500 jobless graduates demands attention. Bashar’s 2025 peace initiative targets 1,000 community dialogues, with 80% success expected. The victory, celebrated by 100,000 at a durbar, aligns with Nigeria’s 15% traditional institution reforms, though 25% funding gaps challenge sustainability.