The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has issued a stern warning to all traditional title holders in his domain, stating that any leader found guilty of beating his wife will lose their title.
The monarch made the declaration on Monday during the 2024 National Dialogue on the role of Islamic Opinion Leaders in preventing gender-based violence in Northern Nigeria, held at Bayero University, Kano (BUK).
Sanusi, who has long been an advocate for women’s rights, stressed the need to put an end to violence against women, describing the act of husbands beating their wives as “animalistic.”
He called for the repeal of section 55 of the Nigerian Penal Code, which permits husbands to “correct” their wives within lawful customs, arguing that this provision has been misused, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
“Husbands that beat wives for any reason are being animalistic,” Sanusi declared.
“If we get to a point where people are not restrained from beating their wives, the government should make it a crime. It should be prohibited.”
The Emir shared findings from research conducted across nine Shari’a courts in Kano, which revealed that 45% of the cases involved gender-based violence.
He further highlighted the severe physical injuries women suffer, such as broken teeth and damaged jaws, due to domestic abuse.
Sanusi emphasized that, in his personal experience, he advises the husbands of his daughters, saying, “If you don’t like them anymore, send them back to me, don’t beat them.”
He added that traditional title holders in his domain are well aware of his stance: “If you beat your wife, you lose your title.”
The Emir also urged Nigeria to adopt family laws similar to those in Islamic countries, which prohibit domestic violence and promote marriages based on love, mercy, and mutual respect.
Dr. Taofeek Abubakar Hussein, Director of the Centre for Islamic Civilisation and Interfaith Dialogue at Bayero University, expressed the centre’s commitment to combating gender-based violence.
Dr. Hassan Karofi, Director of Partnership and Strategic Communications at the Development Research and Projects Centre, highlighted the event as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, with a special focus on leveraging Islamic teachings and community collaboration to address the issue.
Sanusi’s remarks mark a strong stance against domestic violence, signaling a call to action for both the government and traditional leaders to ensure the protection of women’s rights and dignity in society.