Dethroned Nigerian emir of Kano speaks out

Nigeria's dethroned Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has said that he has accepted his removal in good faith.

The emir who was dethroned on Monday and accused of insubordination said "it was God's will."

In a five-minute video recorded message in Hausa language, the former emir asked his family, associates, and followers to support the new emir.

"God in His infinite wisdom had willed that I will become an emir of Kano so I was enthroned on 8 June 2014. I spent almost six years on the throne. But today God has also willed I will leave the throne. I have taken it in good faith," he said.

Mr Sanusi urged people to remain calm and pray for the success of the new emir in order to protect the integrity and heritage of the throne.

The authorities in the northern state of Kano said he was removed "in order to safeguard the sanctity, culture, tradition, religion and prestige of the Kano emirate". They accused him of "total disrespect" of institutions and the governor's office.

But critics say his sacking was political because of his prolonged dispute with Kano Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

Hours after his removal, Mr Sanusi was replaced with Aminu Ado Bayero whose father ruled Kano for more than half a century until his death in 2014.