Why Emir Sanusi II deserves a separate academic class at Kano University

When I read in a newspaper that the current Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, had been admitted to study Law at Northwest University, Kano, I initially assumed that he would be offered special arrangements, perhaps private tutorials or online classes, given his status and responsibilities. Surprisingly, when lectures commenced, I saw him seated comfortably in a regular classroom alongside young men and women, receiving lectures like every other student.

While this is not taboo in an academic setting, it would understandably feel awkward to many, especially students who are expected to learn shoulder-to-shoulder with an Emir. Some of these students may be young enough to be his children, or even grandchildren, and perhaps older than some of the lecturers themselves. Considering his stature as a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, a reigning Emir, a seasoned academic, and a PhD holder, his presence alone is naturally intimidating.

This level of intimidation, whether intentional or not, has the potential to affect the academic atmosphere negatively. Students and even lecturers may feel constrained, overly cautious, or uncomfortable expressing themselves freely in discussions, debates, or even casual academic interactions. An environment that should encourage openness, questioning, and intellectual freedom may instead become rigid and unsettling.

Moreover, many students may find the learning experience boring or uncomfortable, not because of the Emir himself, but because of the psychological weight his presence carries. Muhammadu Sanusi II is not merely a fellow student; he is simultaneously a father figure, a traditional ruler, a respected scholar, and a prominent public figure. These roles cannot simply be set aside within a classroom.

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Therefore, to preserve a free, relaxed, and productive academic environment, especially for his classmates, it would be more appropriate for the Emir to be taught separately. Special classes or tailored academic arrangements would ensure that learning remains effective for all parties involved. His distinguished titles and status, though admirable, are likely to be more distracting than beneficial in a conventional classroom setting, as there are many academic and social interactions that students and lecturers may feel unable to engage in freely in his presence.

Such an arrangement would not diminish the Emir’s commitment to education; rather, it would acknowledge both his unique position and the need to protect the integrity and comfort of the academic environment.

Ukasha Rabiu Magama, writes from Magama, Toro, Bauchi State.