Nigerians are arguably one of the most intelligent people on Earth. From Philip Emeagwali’s feats in information technology to Wole Soyinka achievements as a writer and Masai Ujuri’s leadership prowess in Canada, Nigerians have repeatedly displayed their acumen in all fields of endeavour globally. Notwithstanding millions of Nigerians still voted Muhammadu Buhari, a former dictator who exhibited clear signs of dementia during his election campaign cementing our reputation as one of the most gullible people also.

We are reapplying this trait in the celebration of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the former Emir of Kano. After his recent release from his shortlived exile, he declared that he is no longer interested in being an Emir. His personally orchestrated dethronement is the prelude to his new target that will put him at loggerhead with his co-star Nasir El Rufai who is loyal to none but his ambition of becoming president.

After landing in his first political campaign stop in Lagos, I saw Osita Chidoka (a potential president) and Deji Adeyanju (a potential legislator) smiling to the camera like lottery winners reminding me of how Orji Uzor Kalu smiled not too long ago thinking courting Fulani herdsmen lead to political enthronement. I laugh in Swahili because the scheming Fulani brothers are saying look at these bloody peasants. Sanusi’s “dethronement” presents an opportunity for Hausas to use the power of state governments to reestablish ancient Hausas monarchies and free themselves from eternal servitude.

Ata Ukuta – Editor