Aminu Kano

**Mallam Aminu Kano** GCON (9 August 1920 — 17 April 1983) be Nigerian radical opposition political leader, teacher, poet, playwright, den trade unionist wey come from Kano. He play active role during de transition from British colonial rule go independence, de First Republic, Military rule, plus de Second Republic. Representing Kano East constituency, he serve as Deputy Government Chief Whip insyd Federal House of Representatives. During Yakubu Gowon ein administration, he serve as Federal Commissioner for Communications plus Federal Commissioner for Health. He be vocal critic of British colonialism plus de indirect rule policy wey dem apply insyd northern Nigeria. As democratic humanist den reformer wey describe einself, Aminu combine ein knowledge of Western plus Islamic education to champion liberation of de *talakawa* (commoners).

Insyd 1948, Aminu found Northern Teachers' Association, wey be de first labor union insyd Northern Nigeria, den he help form Northern Peoples Congress (NPC), wey start as cultural organisation, insyd de same year. Because most of dem members be conservative, he comot from NPC to co-found Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), wey be socialist party plus de first declared political party insyd Northern Nigeria. He resign from teaching insyd 1950 to turn full-time politician. As dem elect am President of NEPU insyd 1953, under ein leadership, de party pursue rapid decolonisation plus emancipation of de *talakawa*. After plenty failed attempts, he win ein first election insyd 1959, den join Federal House of Representatives.

As parliamentarian, Aminu continue dey advocate for decolonisation insyd Nigeria plus across Africa, especially insyd South Africa plus Congo. Dem appoint am United Nations delegate, where he promote non-aligned position for Nigeria plus ‘non-bloc diplomacy’. Ein tenure end after he lose ein seat insyd 1964 general election. However, he turn de most influential Northern Nigerian after de 1966 coup, wey lead to assassination of Ahmadu Bello plus Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, wey end de First Republic. He serve as Federal Commissioner during Yakubu Gowon ein military administration (1966–1975). As politics return insyd Second Republic, Aminu found socialist People's Redemption Party (PRP) den run for president. Ein main political focus still be emancipation of de *talakawa* plus empowerment of women, especially through education.

De Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, de Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Aminu Kano College of Education, Aminu Kano Community Commercial College, Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Studies, plus de Aminu Kano College of Islamic Studies—all dey insyd Kano state—dem name all after am. He dey regarded as one of modern Nigeria ein founding fathers den people respect am well-well across de country.

## Early life den education
Dem born Aminu insyd Sudawa ward of de city of Kano on 9 August 1920 to Rakaiya plus Mallam Yusufu wey come from Gyanawa, Fulani clan wey dem know for Islamic scholarship, especially insyd Islamic law. Of ein mommie ein six births, he be de only one wey reach de age of 15. Both ein poppie den mommie sabi Islam well, den ein poppie later serve as Acting Chief Alkali of Kano. Ein grandmother collect de Fulani title of Modibbo, wey usually dey reserved for respected Islamic scholars. As local tradition talk, Usman dan Fodio, wey be founder of Sokoto Caliphate, na he appoint one relative of Aminu to de position of Kano ein chief Alkali. Since dat time, de Gyanawa people dey sought after to occupy legal positions like alkalis, walis plus muftis.

Aminu ein maternal lineage get several learned men plus women wey date back centuries. Dem be Fulbe wey migrate from Kukawa insyd Bornu empire go Kano. Among dem be one mallam wey serve as personal adviser to de Emir of Kano, Sulimanu. Dis mallam support himself by breeding plus selling pigeons, wey earn am de nickname *Mallam Mai Tattabari* ('de mallam wey dey raise pigeons'). Dis nickname turn official title insyd Kano palace plus dem dey pass am down to ein successors, wey dey serve as emirs' personal Imams plus advisers on Islamic law.

As infant, Aminu begin ein education plus de first teachers be ein mommie plus ein grandmother, wey both teach am Arabic language plus how to read de Quran. After ein mommie die insyd 1926, he relocate go ein uncle ein home to live under de care of ein maternal grandmother wey dey there. So, Halilu, ein uncle wey later turn ‘Mallam Mai Tattabari’, come responsible for ein Koranic education. Aminu later enroll insyd Shehuci Primary School, wey be western school, where dem teach am how to read plus write insyd English. He adopt de name of ein birthplace, Kano, as ein surname, wey be common practice among western educated Northern Nigerians insyd dat time.

Insyd 1933, Aminu begin attend Kano Middle School (wey dem later rename Rumfa College, Kano), wey be boarding school. For there, insyd 1935, he lead one of de first student strikes insyd Nigeria against shortage of soap, poor food, “too many restrictions, plus too severe code of behavior”. He then proceed go Kaduna College (wey dem later rename Barewa College) where he collect diploma insyd education insyd 1942.

## Teaching career
After he graduate from Kaduna College insyd 1940, Aminu choose career insyd law instead of following de path of ein classmates wey mostly choose teaching. Dis choice no be common as Sharia courts, wey more popular pass de parallel magistrate courts insyd Kano among Muslims, no dey allow lawyers. Sana, ein interest to study medicine insyd England get hinder by de requirement to attend King's College plus Yaba Higher College, both dey insyd Lagos insyd Southern Nigeria, for some years. But due to de student unrests wey dey go on, de principal of King's College no gree admit Aminu, as he already get reputation for leading student protests. Aminu try join army plus police force too but both reject am as he be five feet four, one inch shorter than de minimum height requirement. Insyd Kaduna College, many people advise am make he pursue teaching career, but na ein science teacher, Dr. R. E. Miller, wey convince am make he take teaching as ein profession. Miller ein argument be:Look, I go advise you make you join de teaching class. Plus de war wey dey go on, plus de Germans dey advance insyd all fronts, e no inconceivable say Hitler fit temporarily take over Nigeria. If dat kind thing happen, you go need professional hiding place, den which place better pass teaching? Sana, I go take you as de only teacher-in-training for science—one of your great loves, right?During ein teacher training, Aminu get posting go various towns for teaching assignments. Insyd ein second year, he spend five months each insyd Bauchi plus Zaria, plus anoda two months “visiting schools insyd de south”. Na insyd ein final year of training insyd 1942 wey ein radical political views begin show. He start write for de few newspapers plus magazines wey dey exist insyd dat time, like *Gaskiya Ta Fi Kwabo* plus *West African Pilot*, plus he develop keen interest insyd politics. Na dat same year too wey he write ein pamphlet *Kano Under de Hammer of Native Autocracy*, wey be critique of de Native Authority.

Towards de end of ein time insyd Kaduna College, he meet Sa'adu Zungur, wey “influence Aminu ein thinking profoundly”. Zungur, wey senior Aminu plus already be proponent of radical politics, be head of de School of Pharmacy insyd Zaria. Aminu dey get long discussions plus Zungur, often dey visit ein house after classes. Dem two know each other since 1935 when Zungur visit Kano, where he leave lasting impression plus Aminu with ein radical plus progressive views. Aminu maintain occasional correspondence plus Zungur until dem reunite insyd Zaria.

### Bauchi
As he finish ein teacher training, Aminu relocate go Bauchi, where he take role as junior teacher insyd Bauchi Middle School. Ein colleagues for de school include Abubakar Tafawa Balewa plus Yahaya Gusau. Aminu ein friendly relationship plus Balewa—wey later turn Nigeria ein only ever Prime Minister—start during demma time teaching insyd Bauchi. Na during dis same period wey Balewa give am de nickname *Molotov*, after Vyacheslav Molotov, de Soviet statesman. Zungur also move go Bauchi during dis time, as he return go ein hometown due to lung disorder wey he get insyd Zaria.

Aminu dey well respected among de students insyd de school. Dem often dey gather for ein house after school hours for discussions plus other extra-curricular activities. He dey organize plays den shows sometimes for de students, sometimes using Abubakar Imam ein works. To support ein lessons, he dey compose songs plus poems for ein students. He dey active sana insyd different student societies like drama, debating, plus science.

Ein close association plus de students plus ein radical ideas make am unpopular plus de school ein administration plus other teachers. One time, de whole student body stage strike over issues like lack of uniforms plus blankets, withheld pocket money, plus poor food quality. De one student wey remain, wey be head boy wey be Balewa ein younger brother, act as demma spokesman. De senior students, among dem be Sule Katagum, lead de other students towards Maiduguri. De Emir of Bauchi plus several teachers catch up plus dem, try negotiate, but de students insist say dem go talk only plus Aminu. Later, Aminu arrive plus Yahya Gusau, den he “reassure dem say demma complaints go get proper airing” plus he convince dem make dem return go demma dormitories. After dem investigate de complaints, dem validate am, wey lead to replacement of de headmaster plus Balewa, “wey right de pre-existing wrongs”.

#### Bauchi General Improvement Union
Insyd 1943, Aminu plus Zungur, Balewa plus Gusau form Bauchi General Improvement Union (BGIU), where dem dey hold discussions wey dey criticize British colonial policies plus de Native Authority. Dis organisation likely get influence from similar one wey Zungur found before insyd Zaria—Northern Provinces General Improvement Union (NPGIU). Aminu plus Zungur write letters den articles wey attack de British 'directed labour' policy, wey dem see as disguised conscription. As Britain need large quantities of food, tin plus soldiers for World War II, colonial officials begin pressure Native Authorities make dem 'direct' specified quotas of food plus manpower. Britain use unregulated forced conscription plenty insyd Northern Nigeria to support demma war effort after demma military misfortunes insyd Far East insyd 1942. One unsigned article wey Aminu write, de senior District Officer A J Knott read am insyd *West African Pilot*, den trace am back to BGIU. Dis discovery lead to dissolution of de union plus replacement by Bauchi Discussion Circle (BDC) or *Majalisar Tadi ta Bauchi*, wey colonial authorities sponsor. De BDC be sanctioned platform for open debate wey go cover 'any plus all ideas'.

#### Bauchi Discussion Circle
BDC hold weekly discussions, wey attract people like department heads, administrators, merchants plus teachers. De number of participants pass de previous BGIU, wey make moderates feel more comfortable since de government approve am. Aminu, wey be secretary, be in charge of sending invitations plus choosing de topics wey dem go discuss. Topics include economic development, democracy, medicine, war plus religion. When de topic be freedom of de press, Aminu plus Zungur highlight contradiction insyd British policy—on one hand dem suppress plus privately condemn voices wey independent from emirs, but on de other hand, dem publicly encourage independent thought plus initiative.

Insyd one discussion on indirect rule, he argue say “e don outlive de purpose wey dem originally intend am for” plus say e be “de most exploiting system of colonial administration wey de world ever know”. He further point out say insyd de time of British takeover, de Sokoto Caliphate plus ein emirates don turn into system wey Shehu Usman dan Fodio—ein founder—no intend. Aminu argue say de succession of caliphs suppose be based on merit rather than birth, plus say de autocratic system of governance dey against teachings of de Islamic Prophet Muhammad plus de Shehu. Balewa, wey be more moderate pass Aminu, lightly defend de indirect rule system, say maintenance of law plus order dey essential to secure de foundation wey go allow de desired reforms to happen. Zungur, wey dey bedridden during de session, respond to Balewa by writing ein own arguments insyd letter wey Aminu deliver to de discussion circle insyd de next session. For dat letter, he support Aminu ein arguments plus add few of ein own. He urge Balewa make he reconsider ein “ill-conceived” defence of indirect rule plus he further argue—De selection of demma [de Native Authority ein] gutter elite no dey happen based on intelligence nor capacity, but just by denial of decent citizen ein outlook. Members of de ruling minority get readiness of desperadoes to gamble, wey dem no get nothing to lose plus everything to gain.During anoda meeting, Aminu pose question to Officer Knott: “Wetin determine emir ein salary?” Knott respond say e depend on extent of ein duties plus weight of ein responsibilities. Then Aminu point out say even though de Lamido of Adamawa get fewer constituents plus responsibilities pass de Emir of Bauchi, de Lamido dey receive higher salary. After dis exchange, de meeting end abruptly. Soon after, Knott announce de termination of BDC, say de discussions dey “get off de rails”.

#### Bauchi Community Center
To replace de BDC, Aminu plus Zungur establish anoda political organisation wey dem call Bauchi Community Center. Dem start plus about 20 members, den de first meeting take place insyd de Native Authority Library, near de emir ein palace. During dis meeting, Balewa come plus policeman at de emir ein request, ask dem make dem disband as “all unions (organisations) dey forbidden”. Zungur then tell am make he go talk de emir say dem no dey disband. After Balewa leave, dem decide make dem deliver letter to de senior political officer tell am wetin happen, claim say de emir dey trespass on demma rights.

Three days later, dem invite de organisation ein members make dem come meet plus de emir. De emir deny say he give order make dem disband, say he only talk say make dem no use “de Native Authority Library typewriters plus facilities”. Even though Balewa complain say he deliver de message wey dem give am accurately plus Zungur ready to use dis contradiction, dem no pursue de matter further, den de organisation accept de emir ein decision. Shortly after, one old man wey dem call Mallam Waziri offer dem ein hall wey no get roof make dem use for meetings, provided say dem go roof am demselves. Dem pool demma money together plus roof am. Not long after, British government offer Aminu one out of seven scholarships to study insyd England starting from September 1946, wey he accept.

### London
Insyd de Institute of Education for London, Aminu dig deep insyd works of people like Harold Laski, George Bernard Shaw plus Karl Mannheim, wey ein teachings be “de source of many of Aminu ein ideas on de ideal human society”. He build connections plus several left-wing people den organisations for London, including de Socialist Labour Party, de Student Socialist Society, plus de Young Socialists. He meet den befriend some left-leaning Members of Parliament plus “top leaders” of communist organisations. He also get influence from prominent Labour politicians of dat time, like Aneurin Bevan plus Fenner Brockway.

After he get exposure to these ideas den influences, Aminu begin try mix political philosophies of early French plus American revolutionaries plus Shavian Fabian socialism plus de teachings of Usman dan Fodio, all under de influence of Sa’adu Zungur ein radical ideas. He also witness de eve of India plus Pakistan independence struggles through students wey come from dem two countries. Aminu, plus students from various British colonies, welcome Ali Jinnah plus Jawaharlal Nehru, wey be leaders for de independence movements of Pakistan plus India respectively, during demma visit to London insyd 1947. Dis experiences likely add to Aminu ein interest insyd Gandhian resistance style.

During ein course, Aminu teach insyd local primary schools den spend weeks insyd Welsh countryside as guest of de Young Farmers’ Club. To fund ein planned tour of British countryside, he take part-time role as Hausa language translator plus British Broadcasting Company (BBC). Unexpectedly, dem invite am as delegate to de World Boy Scout Jamboree insyd Rosny, wey allow am tour Europe at discounted rate. Just before ein journey to France, de whole boy scout group visit Buckingham Palace. Aminu shock see de king plus queen dey chat plus mingle freely plus de boys—contrast to how British officialdom dey behave back insyd Nigeria. Dis contradiction give am optimism, as he interpret am as sign say de colonial empire dey close to collapse.

#### Northern Teachers' Association
Insyd March 1948, while he still dey study insyd London, Aminu form de Northern Teachers’ Welfare Association (wey later turn Northern Teachers’ Association), wey be de first region-wide organisation plus labour union insyd Northern Nigeria, plus other teachers from de region like Salihu Fulani, Z. Y. Dimka, Yahaya Gusau, Shettima Shehu Ajiram, Shehu Shagari, plus Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. De union focus on issues like rights plus welfare of teachers, improved syllabus, differences insyd salary between North plus South, plus eligibility of teachers insyd Christian Mission Schools for membership.

De union grow fast, get about 200 members insyd ein first month plus 25 branches within ein first year, den later become influential for de region ein nationalist organisations wey come after. De union continue dey dominant pass all teachers’ unions insyd Northern Nigeria until dem merge am plus Nigerian Union of Teachers, wey be de dominant teachers’ union insyd Southern Nigeria, insyd 1972.

### Return to Bauchi
As he finish ein course insyd 1948, Aminu return go Bauchi make he resume ein teaching career insyd Bauchi Middle School. Few months later, dem transfer am go Bauchi Teachers’ Training College.

During dis time, Sir John MacPherson, wey be newly appointed Governor of Nigeria, dey prepare for tour across de region. He suppose tour major cities of de North, but he exclude Bauchi. Aminu plus Zungur suspect say dis omission be deliberate move by de Governor plus ein advisors to avoid facing de city ein outspoken radicals plus demma list of demands plus grievances. Dem two go meet de Emir of Bauchi den tell am about de government ein plan to avoid ein domain, claim say e be because of Bauchi ein poor school system, roads, plus economy. Dem fit convince am make he allow dem organize mass rally to protest de Governor ein omission. Dis mass rally—wey be de first ever held insyd Northern Nigeria—gather about one thousand people.

Aminu, wey at dat time still be junior teacher, get invitation go Kaduna to meet plus A J Knott (wey be district officer wey organize de BDC insyd 1943), now de Chief Secretary to de Government, plus Sir MacPherson. During dis meeting, de governor, as he dey address Aminu, reportedly talk say:“You don indicate say you dey think say we dey intentionally keep de North backward, plus say we dey divide de North plus South—that you want make we comot so your country fit get independence. You be man wey come from important Kano family, young plus full of spirit, but you for realize say we no dey intentionally block changes or hold de country back from progress.”Knott proceed tell Aminu say dem dey pay attention to ein critiques of de government, talk say “We really like men like you, wey dey ahead of demma countrymen.” Dem offer am position wey go allow am monitor plus participate insyd “financial section of de government” or even as next editor of *Gaskiya Ta Fi Kwabo*. As he return go Bauchi, Aminu, after he consider de offers plus discuss dem plus Zungur den others, conclude say dem offers be attempt by de government to scatter demma activist activities. So, Aminu reject de offers, tell Knott plus MacPherson say he prefer make he remain teacher. He also later turn down job as lecturer for Hausa language insyd Oxford University.

However, some months later, as dem still dey try scatter de Bauchi radicals, de British government transfer Aminu go Maru insyd Sokoto, appoint am as headmaster of newly constructed teachers’ training college.

### Sokoto
Sokoto be former capital of de 19th-century Sokoto Caliphate, wey Usman dan Fodio establish through jihad. De caliphate cover large part of Northern Nigeria den most of de emirs owe allegiance to de Sultan of Sokoto. After British colonise de state insyd early 20th century, Sokoto turn province den de Sultan ein status reduce; de other emirs now dey answer directly to de British government, no be to de Sultan again. But de place still hold significance as center of traditional plus religious authority insyd de region. So, e dey considered as de most conservative section of very conservative North. Maru (now insyd Maru, Zamfara state), wey be village insyd de province, get population of 8,256 insyd 1964. E clear say Aminu ein transfer go Maru no just to remove am from Zungur but also to isolate am plus block ein activities. As he arrive, he try set up discussion circle but too few educated people dey around plus de nearest big town to Maru dey 35 miles away, “over terrible, barely passable roads”. De Sultan, Siddiq Abubakar III, also dey monitor am, as Aminu later discover. He find out say one old man wey he regularly dey give alms be spy for de Sultan—he realise am some weeks after he settle insyd Maru.

Throughout ein time for Maru, Aminu always dey enter confrontation wey put am insyd conflict plus de Sultan. E start when Aminu dismiss de Sultan ein *Yan Labari*, wey be spies, after he arrive. Later, he send letter of complaint go de British authorities, talk say de money wey dem suppose give to de farmers—wey dem take demma land for de school—no reach dem hand. Anoda dispute come up when Aminu plus Abubakar Gumi, ein colleague wey later become Grand Khadi of Northern Nigeria, nearly cause Qadiriyya-Tijaniyya feud insyd de province, as dem stop demma students from attend Friday service because of issue plus de Imam ein ablution. According to dem, de Imam of Maru dey practice *tayammum*—wey be Islamic act for dry ablution reserved for times when water no dey—even though no water shortage dey insyd Maru. De Sultan set up commission of inquiry, wey acquit Gumi plus urge de Sultan make he personally intervene for Maru to stop de practice of tayammum. But despite de commission ein recommendation, de Sultan no comply—he refuse to dismiss de Imam.

For dat time, Aminu get cordial relationship plus Ahmadu Bello, wey be Sardauna of Sokoto, wey also get rivalry plus de Sultan. When de Sultan ein court convict Bello for jangali tax ('cattle tax') misappropriations insyd 1943, Aminu contribute big part of ein Bauchi teaching salary to Bello ein defense fund. As Aminu now dey insyd Maru, Bello see am as potential ally against de Sultan. Bello dey visit Aminu frequently for Maru, den during one visit wey Aminu go Sokoto for provincial constitutional conference, he stay for Bello ein residence. During dis period, de Sultan send private invitation to Aminu, likely to reconcile. He request discreet 2 a.m. meeting, but when he hear say Aminu don tell Bello about de invitation, de Sultan vex bad then cancel de meeting.

#### Northern People's Congress
Because of de success of Aminu ein teachers’ union, other notable learned men around de region approach am about setting up similar organisation. Insyd late 1948, different organisations from Zaria, Kaduna den Bauchi come together to form *Jam’iyyar Mutanen Arewa*, wey be Northern People’s Congress (NPC). Insyd June 1949, dem hold de organisation ein inaugural meeting for Green’s Hotel insyd Kaduna plus about 500 people dey attend. De founding members include Dr. R. A. B. Dikko, Yahaya Gusau, Abubakar Imam (wey be editor of *Gaskiya Ta Fi Kwabo*), Yusuf Maitama Sule, Aliyu Mai Bornu, Aminu Kano, Isa Wali (wey be Aminu ein cousin) plus Sa’adu Zungur, wey at dat time be general secretary for National Council of Nigeria plus de Cameroons (NCNC).

For ein first general meeting insyd December 1949, de leaders of de congress—Dikko plus Gusau—declare say de congress no get intention to subvert de colonial plus aristocratic government, plus say de—Jam'iyyar no get intention to usurp de authority of our Natural rulers; on de contrary, e be our strong desire to enhance such authority anytime plus anywhere possible. We wan help our Natural rulers for proper discharge of demma duties...We wan help dem to enlighten de Talakawa [common people].A district officer, representing de Resident of Kano, cautioned de attendees dat they could only bring about demma desired reforms if they moved "slowly plus caution" den dat "one must learn to walk before one can run". Aminu responde by asking him to report to ein superiors that:“If we go on foot, we no go walk—we go run. And if we fall, we go get up den run again. But note this—we no go choose to go on foot. You fit talk say make we use camel or horse, but we go skip motor car den choose aeroplane. Make de British no try deny us our choice of transportation, no matter how fast.”Plenty Northern rulers, like de Sultan, Emir of Kano plus Emir of Zaria, approve de ‘harmless’ plus ‘deferential’ attitude of de congress. But younger members like Maitama, Aminu, plus Zungur believe say de congress too dey uncritical of both de emirs plus de British authorities, den dem emphasize say de North need serious political reform. Finally, insyd August 1950, some radical NPC members for Kano form *Northern Elements Progressive Union* (Jam’iyyar Neman Sawaba), wey be de first declared political party for Northern Nigeria. NEPU get influence from Zungur ein openly radical *Northern Elements Progressive Association*. Dem get support from Aminu, wey no fit join de party at dat time as he still dey work for de government plus no fit openly join political party.

#### Resignation
Aminu submit ein resignation letter on 16 October 1950, then he comot from Maru for good on 4 November of dat same year. Sheikh Usman Bida, wey be ein classmate from Kaduna College, plus Sule Katagum, Wazirin Katagum, both believe say dem force am resign. Aminu himself don dey think about dis move since as early as April dat year. When de deputy director of Education for de North warn am say he no go get reappointment if he continue ein political activities, Aminu write for ein diary say, “All right, dat na him problem. Mine be to resign by next year.”

One article wey Aminu write to explain why he resign, dem publish am for *Daily Comet* newspaper on 11 November 1950.I resign because I no go ever believe say dis country suppose be prisoner of Anglo-Fulani aristocracy—I resign because I fanatically share de view say de Native Authorities...dem hopelessly fail to solve we urgent educational, social, economic, political or even religious problems—My stay for England...harden my soul to lift truth, freedom plus above all human rights wey de world fight fascism for—I don face threat twice plus de merciless fangs...while corruption, misrule, political bluff, slavery in new cloth, naked nepotism, tyranny, poverty...unnecessary keeping of hereditary parasites, bare den shameless economic exploitation dey everywhere...I no fit tolerate these things because dem smell bad...I dey ready make you call me any name. Call me dreamer or revolutionary; call me crusader or anything dis imperialist government want. I don see light far away plus I dey plan march enter ein full circle—whether alone or plus anybody wey ready follow me. To dis same suppressors of we people, I talk this: *Look Out!* Africa no dey sleep again! She dey just ready shake off de stupor...

## Political career

### Pre-Independence (1950—1959)
Nepotism, poverty wey stand naked, disease, slavery in new uniform, injustice plus shameless greed dey as common today like how e dey before de sudden arrival of 19th-century imperialism. De promotion or appointment of illiterate men—whether dem be young or grey bearded—go high office of state, just because of accident of birth or “hypocritical closeness,” no just dey rob people of demma intelligence plus initiative; e also prove say dis organised autocracy na copy of native rule wey no Islamic, wey British imperialism purposely plan make dem no abolish.After he resign, Aminu return go Kano plus formally join *Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU)* party. De stated goals of de party include “emancipation of de Talakawa” (commoners) through “reform of de present autocratic political institutions”. During de second annual convention of *Northern Peoples’ Congress (NPC)* insyd December 1950, NEPU pass one resolution wey Aminu draft, call say make NPC be declared as “explicitly nationalist political party”. E become clear say North need political party to catch up plus de continued democratisation of de country. But powerful emirs plus “certain administrative officers” see NPC as group wey get dangerously radical ideas. Moderate plus conservative members begin express concern, fear say if dem view NPC as radical, e go hard am become dominant party insyd de North. Several NPC members even threaten say dem go withdraw from de organisation if dem no expel NEPU members.

Shehu Shagari, wey be leader of *Sokoto Youth Social Circle* wing of NPC, receive instruction make he oppose any attempt by Aminu plus Zungur to enter leadership positions insyd de 1950 Jos convention of NPC. As Shagari dey travel go de convention, he meet Aminu plus Zungur insyd train den tell dem about de instruction. He talk say Aminu, after he hear dis, encourage am make he “exercise de mandate I had been given” plus assure am say demma friendship plus respect go continue. Because of dat, NEPU comot from NPC den form independent political party.

Aminu take part for de primary voting phase of de first parliamentary election wey happen insyd September 1951 for de Northern House of Assembly. Ein party, NEPU, win 12 out of de 26 seats wey dem allocate for Kano city—dem outperform de other three parties, including de Native Administration officials wey join hold six seats. De next stage involve de final colleges, wey elect candidates go de House of Assembly through secret ballot. Dis colleges be relatively small groups, each dey cast few hundreds votes or less. Even though NEPU succeed well well for de earlier phase, Aminu no get luck for de final voting process—he get only 16 votes out of 68, plus no NEPU member enter de 1952 House of Assembly, wey serve as electoral college for de House of Representatives. Four NEPU members wey first succeed for de intermediate stage come face dem old defeated rivals from Native Authority for de final stage. Because of how de elections take go, people begin reason say British officials plus Native Authority don plan electoral system wey favour de Native Authority, den “plenty of de elected members turn defenders of ein interests”. Sir Bryan Sharwood-Smith, wey be former Governor of Northern Nigeria, say he ‘wish’ say Aminu win de election as e “fit remove some of de bitterness from Aminu ein system” plus say “[Northern Nigeria] need all de able men wey e fit gather, and Aminu ein ability no get question at all.” NEPU organise one mass rally of “15,000 souls [taxpayers]” insyd Kano to protest dis election result. De party organise mock elections to show say direct elections fit happen orderly. NEPU fit raise enough money wey dem take send Aminu go England “make he plead demma case before de British Parliament plus general public”. Plus help from Thomas Hodgkin plus John Collins, Aminu fit meet members of de House of Lords, Fabian MPs, plus de British Secretary of State. Native Authority retaliate by harassing plus jailing NEPU members all around Kano, especially beat Gambo Sawaba—wey be strong women’s rights activist plus leader of NEPU ein women’s wing. De NPC, wey now be de leading political party for de North, also use ‘group of hooligans’ wey dem dey call *Yan Mahaukata* (‘mad people’) or *Jam’iyyar Mahaukata* (‘Madmen’s Party’), to disturb members of other political parties for Kano, especially NEPU members. To fight back against all dis aggression, NEPU establish *Positive Action Wing (PAW)*. Some British Parliament members like Fenner Brockway also put pressure on de colonial government make dem stop de repressive actions. But PAW eventually dissolve insyd 1954, as e turn out say e dey even more violent pass de *Yan Mahaukata*.

Because of ein high status insyd de party, Aminu get protection from de physical violence wey other NEPU members dey suffer. But e still face plenty arrests from de Native Authority. During de federal election campaign of 1954, dem convict am two times. First, for flying NEPU ein flag on ein car insyd Kano city—wey be act wey traditionally dey reserved for de Emir of Kano plus de British Resident. Second, for publishing articles wey dem claim get ‘seditious intent’—wey lead to three-day imprisonment for de first offense plus £50 fine for de second one. For anoda incident, one group of *mallamai* wey Nasiru Kabara lead accuse Aminu of heresy. De accusation focus on de belief say make NEPU members wear *Sawaba* buttons be un-Islamic, plus dem allege say NEPU dey collaborate plus Christians against de religious leaders of de North. Aminu, together plus ein advisers Danladi plus Lawan Dambazau, appear before de Emir ein council of Kano to address de charges. Because of how serious de accusations be, he plus ein advisers “perform de ablutions of man wey dey face death (last rites)”. For de meeting, Aminu talk say de Emir ein council no be debating society, say discussions suppose happen separate then report later to de Emir. Dem agree, den schedule second meeting. For dis second meeting, Aminu talk say NEPU ein alliance plus *National Council of Nigeria and de Cameroons (NCNC)* no dey against Islamic teachings, as even Prophet Muhammad once make defense alliance plus Jews around Medina. He also talk say de Emir of Kano himself recently consult Christian Igbo engineers make dem work on de Great Mosque of Kano insyd de 1950s. About de matter of *Sawaba* buttons, Aminu question whether e no be un-Islamic too when some emirs wear medal of de British *Order of St. George*. In the end, dem reach compromise—say NEPU members fit wear party badges only during mass rallies.

Aminu get elected as President-General of NEPU during de party ein third annual convention insyd 1953, wey he take over from Abba Maikwaru. One year later, de party enter alliance plus *National Council of Nigeria and de Cameroons (NCNC)* wey Nnamdi Azikiwe lead. Aminu contest de 1954 Federal elections for Kano East, but he lose to Maitama Sule. During de 1956 regional elections, Aminu contest again for de same Kano East seat, but this time he lose to Ahmadu Dantata, one of de richest Nigerians plus heir to de Dantata business empire. De election, wey dem conduct based on male taxpayer suffrage, end with Dantata getting 2,119 votes, while Aminu get 1,776.

De 1959 Nigerian general election be key milestone as e be de first one wey feature direct voting for every constituency. Aminu, wey dey run under de NEPU-NCNC alliance, contest again for Kano East den get 60.4% of de votes, wey make am secure seat for de Federal House of Representatives. For de House, dem appoint am as Deputy Government Chief Whip plus Chairman of de Alliance Committee on foreign affairs. Dem also talk say he decline ministerial appointment because he feel say e be 'unseemly' to accept position “wey get prestige but no power” while about 2,000 of ein party followers still dey prison.

### First Republic (1960—1966)
Sanso see: First Nigerian Republic

As Parliamentarian, Aminu turn ein attention to national plus international issues wey dey affect newly independent Nigeria, but he still hold tight to ein main goal—de emancipation of de *Talakawa*. For de House, he propose several ways wey go support plus fast-track de country ein decolonisation efforts. For Nigeria ein foreign policy, Aminu be strong pan-Africanism advocate—he argue say Nigeria suppose turn “de base for struggle against white domination”. He consistently push say Nigeria for increase ein support for anti-apartheid efforts for South Africa, plus encourage Nigeria make dem continue dey involved for restoring “peace plus dignity for Congo”. Prime Minister of Nigeria, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa—wey be Aminu ein former colleague from Bauchi—appoint am as United Nations (UN) delegate. As he enter UN role, Aminu show say he dey less radical pass how he dey act locally. For de international level, he align ein views plus “progressivism plus vigilant neutralism”. As militant pan-Africanist, he advocate say Nigeria suppose take non-aligned position—he believe in de cause of ‘non-bloc diplomacy’.

During Aminu ein time for de House insyd Lagos, to manage NEPU begin turn wahala. Early insyd 1961, Joseph Tarka, leader of de *United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC)*, propose alliance between NEPU plus ein party, to form strong coalition wey go challenge NPC for de North. But de condition be say NEPU must support UMBC goal to create separate Middle Belt state. Even though Aminu see some benefit inside de coalition, he decline de offer because UMBC dey affiliated plus *Action Group (AG)*. He interpret de proposal as indirect way wey AG wan take cut off NCNC ties plus NEPU—NCNC be dem main opposition for de South. Even though some NEPU members oppose am, de UMBC proposal begin gain popularity, den Aminu ein rejection come face backlash. NEPU poor performance inside de 1961 elections for Northern House of Assembly—wey dem win only one seat—add to de party ein internal instability. Insyd 1963, Muhammad Sanusi get deposed by de Northern Regional Government as Emir of Kano. Aminu suspect say Ahmadu Bello—wey be Premier of Northern Nigeria plus NPC leader—be de person behind de deposition. He start share posters plus propaganda wey dey draw parallels between old rivalry of Sokoto plus Kano. Sanusi get replaced by old Muhammad Inuwa—wey get cordial relationship plus Aminu. Sanusi ein supporters form *Kano People’s Party (KPP)*, wey dey aim to bring am back or make ein son *Ado Sanusi* take over. De *KPP* join force plus NEPU, but dem no commit to restore Sanusi. NPC, wey dey try win back support insyd Kano, call ein supporters make dem go greet de new Emir. After NEPU supporters face harassment for dat gathering, dem organise bigger rally de next day wey 35,000 people attend, den de Emir receive dem well. Inuwa die de day after dis rally, plus Bello—wey dey try avoid unrest—appoint *Ado Bayero*, Sanusi ein half-brother plus Nigeria ein ambassador to Senegal, as replacement. Sanusi ein removal affect NEPU support insyd Kano plenty, plus e increase tension between Kano plus Sokoto, especially between de Sufi brotherhoods *Tijanniyya* plus *Qadriyya*. Even though Aminu no dey part of any Sufi brotherhood, he sabi how important dem be for Northern Nigeria, plus he use de rivalries push NEPU interest. During de 1964 Federal election campaigns, Aminu visit *Sheikh Ibrahim Niass*, wey be influential *Tijanni* leader, for *Kaolack*. Photos wey show Aminu dey receive blessings from de Sheikh start circulate all over Northern Nigeria.

#### 1964 General election
Sanso see: 1964 Nigerian general election

After *UMBC* end ein alliance plus *Action Group*, NEPU plus UMBC come together form *Northern Progressive Front (NPF)*—wey aim to “break up de monolithic Northern Region, make dem give proper voice to de bigger minority groups”. De *KPP* plus other small groups join *NPF*, with hopes say dem go establish separate, independent Kano state. As elections dey approach, unrest plus corruption allegations begin rise across all three regions. For Kano, Aminu wey be NEPU leader meet plus *Ibrahim Gashash*, NPC party leader, to try reduce potential violence by agreeing on how electoral conduct suppose be. Gashash agree say he go try convince ein party leaders make dem avoid bloody clashes—but e no work. On December 28—two days before de election—President *Azikiwe* urge Prime Minister *Balewa* make he postpone de election for six months because of de rising unrest, plus he request make UN monitor am. Balewa reject de request, talk say e dey outside ein authority. Chairman of de *Federal Electoral Commission*, without ask other members, also dismiss de request—wey make three out of de six commission members resign. De injustice plus corruption allegations cause some candidates plus parties to boycott de election, plus e lead to lopsided results. Aminu lose ein Kano East seat to NPC candidate *Mahmud Dantata*—wey be son of *Alhassan Dantata* plus former NEPU member. Dantata get 1,700 votes, while Aminu get 690 out of 40,000 eligible voters.

After de election, Aminu plus NEPU ein central working committee organise convention to restrategise. Dem write one *White Paper on Political Problems Facing Nigeria* wey dem plan present—e evaluate NEPU ein role plus suggest how de organisation go adjust. Dis convention be de biggest insyd de party ein history, plus delegates from hundreds of branches across de North show face. Topics wey dem discuss include possibility to unify all opposition political parties wey dey North, formation of “all-encompassing national party”, creation of new states, plus how to establish scholarship aid. Dis convention lead to de birth of *Kano State Movement (KSM)*—wey NEPU, KPP, plus some dissident NPC members join body. On April 14, 1965, dem organise mass gathering to inaugurate de KSM—e draw one of de largest crowd wey Northern Nigeria politics ever see. *Ahmadu Trader*, wey be Aminu ein long-time friend, get appointed as KSM ein first president, plus Aminu become ein political adviser. De main goal of KSM be formation of separate Kano state.

Insyd 1965, Prime Minister *Balewa* appoint Aminu as UN delegate. Aminu represent Nigeria for de 1965 *United Nations Conference on Trade and Development*. When he return from ein UN duties, on 6 January 1966, Aminu travel from Lagos go Kano to attend NEPU conference, wey dem continue de discussions on how to restrategise. As he reach Kano, Aminu get message through *Abubakar Gumi*—wey be Grand Khadi (Chief Justice) of de Northern Region plus former colleague of Aminu from Maru—about secret meeting wey *Ahmadu Bello*, wey then dey Mecca, arrange. De meeting suppose happen between de three of dem, wey dem schedule for 16 January 1966. But just before de meeting fit happen, Bello get assassinated on 15 January. Even though Bello ein intentions for de meeting no clear because of how e take die quick, Gumi believe say he fit dey reconsider de level of repression wey dey North, plus he dey plan negotiate one electoral agreement for de upcoming *Northern Regional Assembly elections*.

### Military rule (1966—1979)
Between 14 plus 15 January 1966, rebel soldiers from Nigerian Army wey *Kaduna Nzeogwu* plus four others lead assassinate plenty influential Nigerians—like *Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa*, wey be Prime Minister of Nigeria; *Sir Ahmadu Bello*, Sardauna of Sokoto plus Premier of Northern Nigeria; plus *Chief Ladoke Akintola*, Premier of Western Nigeria. Dis coup attempt cause anti-coup movement wey rise insyd de army—wey *Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi*, de General Officer Commanding, lead—plus dem fit stop de coup. After de coup fail, on 16 January, *Aguiyi-Ironsi* take position as Head of State, plus he begin lead Nigeria ein first Military Government.

#### Ironsi's regime
Sanso see: 1966 Nigerian coup d'état

Even though plenty NEPU members dey optimistic say dem fit fill de political vacuum wey de coup leave, Aminu approach *Ironsi* regime with caution. As party representative, he send ‘cautiously worded’ telegram go de government—he no swear allegiance but express hope say de Ironsi regime go unite de nation plus support democratisation. Ironsi fast fast become unpopular for both North plus West regions, because he no show regard for de political class wey dey those areas—instead he favour de emirs plus chiefs. De only influential political figures wey dey de new administration be de former Governors wey now dey serve as advisers to de military governors. De new situation for de North begin resemble old *indirect rule* wey British colonialists use, wey increase de anger against de regime—especially for radical circles. Three months inside Ironsi ein rule, Aminu begin hold talks plus *Joseph Tarka* plus *Maitama Sule* about wetin dem call “common threat to Nigeria”. Around dat same time, Ironsi agree make he set up meeting plus Aminu. Aminu outline challenges wey dey face de North plus suggest solutions—but Ironsi no show interest, so Aminu ein efforts turn “to no avail”. After dat, Aminu begin rely on *Ado Bayero*—wey be relatively conservative Emir of Kano—to help carry ein radical ideas go Supreme Commander.

Insyd May, *Ironsi* issue controversial “Unification Decree” wey abolish Nigeria ein regions then replace dem plus “groups of provinces”. De Decree also unify de civil services wey before dey regional level. He also abolish all political parties plus cultural associations as attempt to attack ‘tribalism’. Dis announcement increase tension for de North, where most elite groups begin feel alienated from de Lagos government. Dem talk say de Decree no dey discussed properly plus de conditions “no favour dem”. For Kano, about two hundred students—mostly from *Abdullahi Bayero College*, *Rumfa College* plus *School for Arabic Studies*—organise protest. Dem present written statement to de *Emir of Kano* make he deliver am to de Military Governor of Northern Region, *Hassan Katsina*. De next day, riots burst insyd de city—rioters target *Igbo* traders—wey lead to deaths of around 100 to 200 people, mostly Igbos but also others wey get caught insyd de wahala. Tribunal come dey set up to investigate de riots—wey *Sir Lionel Brett*, British judge of Nigerian Supreme Court, lead. But Brett ein tribunal no pass judgement as Ironsi ein regime end after he get killed on 29 July 1966.

Insyd July, Ironsi organise one conference plus de country ein influential emirs plus chiefs for *Ibadan*. During de conference, he instruct dem on how to sing de national anthem then talk say he plan give dem roles all over Nigeria like de military governors. Dis suggestion bring plenty controversy—*Sarkin Kano Ado Bayero* even walk out of de conference. On 29 July 1966, counter-coup start, mostly by Northern officers, wey lead to Ironsi ein assassination for *Ibadan*. Then on 1 August 1966, *Lt-Colonel Yakubu Gowon* get appointed as Head of State after de *Supreme Military Council (SMC)* ask am make he take command.

#### Gowon's regime (1966—1975)
See also: 1966 Nigerian counter-coup

De appointment of *Gowon*—wey be Christian Northerner from minority ethnic group—as Head of State be move wey de *Supreme Military Council (SMC)* take make dem stop de Northern coupists, wey *Lt-Colonel Murtala Muhammed* lead, from breaking away from de republic. Gowon quickly release most political prisoners wey Ironsi ein regime detain—including *Obafemi Awolowo*, wey be powerful Yoruba politician from Western region. Gowon also revoke de controversial *Unification Decree* den bring back de four regions wey dem abolish before. Insyd addition, Gowon organise one conference of regional representatives to create new constitutional principles—we dey call am *Ad Hoc Constitutional Committee*. Aminu plus *Joseph Tarka* dey among de Northern region representatives wey attend de conference. All delegates for de conference—except de Easterners—support idea of strong federal government wey dey based on small small states.

Right after dem announce say *Gowon* be Head of State, Aminu help organise talks plus de North ein “leaders of thought” for *Kaduna*—wey include civil servants plus First Republic politicians. De talks focus on de direction wey de new government suppose go. Dem draft discussion papers wey dem present for review—some make dem accept, some make dem modify, some dem reject. Before *Gowon* ein ad hoc committee go gather, de Kaduna discussion group already begin talk on de matter of creating new states, plus Aminu get selected as head of de subcommittee. Aminu represent de Kaduna group for de *Ad Hoc Conference* wey hold for *Lagos*, where he present recommendation say make dem create between 12 to 14 states—7 for de North, 5 for de South. But in de end, de Conference divide am equally—6 states for North, 6 for South. For de first two months of Gowon ein administration, Aminu hold three different meetings plus am. De first be one ten-man delegation from de North, de second as member of de Ad Hoc Committee, den de third one be part of five-man committee of Northerners, wey *Sir Kashim Ibrahim* lead—wey be former NPC politician plus last civilian Governor of Northern Nigeria. Dis committee gather at Gowon ein request, so dem fit convince am say strong federal government plus national unity be necessary.

Now wey de North don support strong federal government—after *Gowon* fit persuade *Ibrahim* ein delegation—and de West also support after *Chief Awolowo* finally “come around” to de idea, na only de Eastern region remain in opposition. De Igbo-dominated East hold strong distrust toward de military government—mostly because of de “pogrom-like” violence wey dem suffer shortly after de July coup, wey rogue soldiers carry out as revenge for de January coup. For ein diary entry on 4 October 1966, Aminu write: *“Account of army mutiny most disheartening. Speed and action required. East on way to secession.”* To fast-track return to civilian rule, Aminu reach out to leaders of de Ad Hoc Committee—*Awolowo (West)*, *Kashim Ibrahim (North)*, *Anthony Enahoro (Mid-West)* plus *‘Eni’ (East)*—make dem begin talk on how to form interim government. But before dem fit move forward, violence burst out for de North wey interrupt de whole plan.

Among de three big violent outbreaks wey happen for 1966, de one wey burst for October na “by far de most massive in terms of deaths”. De violence come from Northern soldiers plus local thugs—especially de *yan daba* wey dey Kano. Because of dis, plenty Igbos wey dey live for North run go East to find safety. After dem go through another massacre, de Eastern region no gree return to de *Ad Hoc conferences*. By de time de violence end, “all *Ibos* don flee de North, plus *Hausas* flee de East”. De mass movement of about one million Easterners cause de North ein economy to almost collapse. Clerks, technicians, traders plus civil servants wey suddenly comot affect de region badly—services only fit recover about 40% of how e be before six weeks later. To help tackle de problem, Aminu establish *Kano Community Commercial School*—now known as *Aminu Kano Community Commercial College*. *Hassan Katsina*, wey be Military-Governor of de North, agree to speed up de project, plus *Maitama Sule* offer ein house as de first location for de school. Oda people wey support de project include *Sarkin Kano Ado Bayero*, *Aminu Dantata*, *Sani Gezawa*, *Inuwa Wada*, plus *Tanko Yakasai*. Aminu donate 250 pounds personally, plus total contributions reach around 4,000 pounds. Aminu serve as chairman of de school until he die insyd 1983. One of de school ein most famous alumni be *Aliko Dangote*—wey be de richest African.

Early January 1967, *Supreme Military Council (SMC)* hold one meeting for *Aburi, Ghana*, wey historian *Max Siollun* describe as “historic constitutional debate wey go determine Nigeria ein future social plus political structure.” De most active person for de meeting be *Lt-Colonel C. Odumegwu-Ojukwu*, wey be Military-Governor of de East—wey put forward plenty suggestions. Among de suggestions, de most important ones be say regions must approve any decision wey go affect dem, plus any decree wey oppose dis principle must be repealed. Dis suggestions, wey basically dey push regional autonomy, get unanimous agreement from all SMC members. But as *Gowon* return go Lagos, “ein civil servants shock by how far he concede to Ojukwu.” Because of dat, de *Aburi Accords* no get implemented, wey worsen de relationship between Eastern Region plus Federal Government. While all dis dey happen, Aminu; *Joseph Tarka* (UMBC leader); *Aliyu Makaman Bida* (de most senior surviving NPC politician); plus *Umaru Dikko* wey be secretary—start tour for North to inform people about de current situation plus, most importantly, discourage talk of secession from de Federation. Dis tour include public discussions plus meeting plus influential emirs plus chiefs of de region. Not long after de tour, Aminu lose ein cousin *Isa Wali* insyd February, plus ein papa insyd May.

On 27 May 1967, *Gowon* announce say Nigeria go divide into twelve states. Dis move get wide celebration from de minority ethnic groups of de four regions wey dem abolish. Government come form *Federal Executive Council (FEC)* wey go serve under de *Supreme Military Council*. De FEC include civilian representatives wey dem appoint from each state, plus e go serve as de administrative arm of de government. Aminu get appointed as Kano State representative, plus dem give am position of *Federal Commissioner of Communications*.

##### Civil war (1967—1970)
Main article: Nigerian Civil War

Three days after dem divide de regions, *Ojukwu* declare independence of de Eastern Region—we dem call *Republic of Biafra*. After de government's attempt for “police action” fail, de Military-Government respond plus land plus sea blockades. After dat, de *Biafran* army invade plus take control of *Mid-Western State (Bendel)*, wey make *Gowon* declare war. 

Throughout de war, Aminu still dey active as member of de *Federal Executive Council (FEC)*. He lead de procurement committee wey get task to secure arms—dis make am travel plenty around de world, like Europe, United States, Soviet Union, plus North Africa, to negotiate arms deals. Insyd May 1968, Aminu take part for peace talks between *Nigeria* plus *Biafra* wey hold for *Kampala, Uganda*—one year into de civil war. *Chinua Achebe*, de influential Nigerian writer, also attend de talks as part of Biafran delegation. Dis meeting be de first time wey Achebe meet Aminu, plus he recall:I remember am well well as I see *Aminu Kano* wey be Nigerian delegation member sit for front dey look so distressed. Dat be one of de strongest impression wey de man leave for my mind—especially when you compare am plus people like *Chief Enahoro* wey lead de delegation dey walk like conquerors, plus even *Asika*. Aminu Kano just be different—he even look like person wey dey stare through window. While ein colleagues dey talk arrogantly den dey force surrender matter, Aminu Kano stay calm plus e dey in pain. Dis be man wey no dey happy about any side or how dem dey run de matter. Dat meeting put mark wey no fit clean inside me mind about Aminu Kano—about ein character plus ein brain.Aminu no see de war as fight against *Igbo people* or former Eastern Region—but as war wey dey against *secession*. During ein speech to students for *Abdullahi Bayero College* wey dey Kano inside February 1970, Aminu urge Nigerians plus de government make dem properly prepare for de return of *Biafrans*. Aminu stress say de approach suppose be about compassion, reconciliation, plus proper reintegration—not revenge. Aminu say:De reintegration of *Ibos* be big issue. Dem leave large part of dis country, plus plenty of wetin dem leave, indigenes of de place don take over. Wetin dem go do now? Dis thing important, since we dey fight dem make dem stay for Nigeria. We dey tell dem, “You no fit go. You must remain Nigerian.” As dem dey come back, you fit deny dem de right to own plots or land? You no fit do dat. How de ordinary *Ibo* go take absorb dat? Dem talk, “We wan go.” We talk, “No, you must remain in Nigeria.” Now dem dey return, dem go talk, “We don come back.” Wetin we go do? Dis matter dey serious—e no simple at all. E no enough to just talk say de houses wey dey *Sabon Gari*, wey dey *Tudun Wada*, wey dey *Kaduna* dey protected. Dem go come back? With dem industry? With strong desire to remain Nigerian? Plenty of our sons plus daughters don die for unity sake—to make sure *Ibos* remain inside Nigeria. You fit push dem aside now? You no fit do dat. So wetin be de program? You must start plan now. E no enough to just talk say, “Oh yes, dem dey come back.”

##### Reforms insyd Kano State
For de newly created *Kano State*, two strong figures of national authority dey during *Gowon* ein administration. Dem be *Audu Bako*, wey be Military-Governor of Kano State, plus *Aminu*, wey be civilian commissioner plus member of de *Federal Executive Council (FEC)*.

Plenty reforms happen inside de State, especially for de Emirate level. De former *alkali courts* get replaced plus *area courts*, plus de *emir* ein court get disbanded. De *federal* plus *emirate police forces* get merged together under control of de *commissioner of police*, wey federal government appoint. Dem group de *Emirate* ein districts into 8 administrative areas, each one get appointed district officer wey dey report to secretary of de military governor. De *Native Authority* get replaced by de *Local Government Authority (LGA)*—wey mainly consist of *Emirate Council* plus *General Purposes Committee*. De *Emirate Council* get 40 members, with de *emir* as chairman. About two-thirds of de council members be representatives of districts wey dem choose through election. But initially, de whole council get appointed by de military governor.

Even though dem reduce de *emir* ein powers for *Kano*, especially for judicial matters, he still hold strong influence for de *Local Government Authority (LGA)* level. He still get de power to appoint all district heads, plus he fit exert influence on executive plus legislative matters across all levels. *Bako* outline ein three key policies for de reforms: to keep de best aspects of de traditional *emirate* government for *Kano*, to bring leaders closer to de people through proper representation, plus to deal seriously with anybody wey dey obstruct established authority. Even though *Aminu* no talk publicly about de reforms, plenty people identify am as one of de main reformers. Many of de views wey he get earlier on how to decentralise *emirate* authority show clearly inside de new structure of *Kano State*. Ein ideas about removing land plus judicial powers from de emir be well known. *Bako* apparently appoint ein commissioners mostly based on *Aminu* ein recommendation.

#### Muhammad's regime (1975—1976) and Obasanjo's regime (1976—1979)
General Murtala Muhammad

General Olusegun Obasanjo with US President Jimmy Carter in 1977

Main articles: Murtala Muhammed and Olusegun Obasanjo

After de civil war finish, Aminu take position as *Federal Commissioner of Health* for 1971. Then for 1975, one coup d’état against *Gowon* happen while he dey represent *Nigeria* for de 12th summit of de *Organisation of African Unity (OAU)* for *Kampala*. *Murtala Muhammad* get announced as Head of State by de coup leaders on 30 July 1975. But one year later, *Muhammad* get assassinated inside failed coup attempt, den ein deputy *Olusegun Obasanjo* take over as Head of State.

Before he die, *General Muhammad* set up one *Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC)* wey dem give task to prepare new constitution for transition to civilian rule. For August 1976, *Obasanjo* announce say dem go form one *Constituent Assembly* to deliberate on de draft constitution wey CDC prepare. Dem conduct elections for de *Constituent Assembly*, and *Federal Electoral Commission (FEDECO)* wey dem just form handle de candidate selection. *Aminu* get nominated plus he win successfully. De Assembly hold sessions from October 1977 to June 1978. Dem submit de Assembly ein draft constitution to de *Supreme Military Council (SMC)* for August. After SMC approve 17 amendments to de draft, dem announce de new constitution for September 1978. De “ban on politics” also get lifted dat same day, plus dem encourage Nigerians make dem form political parties prepare for de election wey go happen de following year.

### Second republic (1979—1983)
After *General Muhammad* announce de plan to return to civilian rule by 1979, *Aminu* begin reach out to ein contacts to form one political association. He also keep connection plus student organisations across de country. Later, Aminu join one political group wey dem call *National Movement*, wey be made up of influential figures, mostly from de North. Dis association be direct successor to de *Kaduna discussion group* wey dem form just after de 1966 counter-coup wey end de First Republic. Dis group hold secret meetings throughout dis period, plus dem later invite influential political people from de South in effort to “form one true national party.” After dem lift de ban on politics in September 1978, de successor of de group—*National Party of Nigeria (NPN)*—get launched.

#### Formation of PRP
One day before dem launch de *National Party of Nigeria (NPN)*, Aminu comot from de association to form ein own thing, plus he dey hold one meeting for *Yaba, Lagos*. De NPN fast fast send *Joseph Tarka* plus *Inuwa Wada*—wey be ein cousin—go try persuade am make he return. Aminu agree say he go send five aides go represent am for de launch, but he continue ein meeting and never return to NPN.

De actual reason why Aminu comot from NPN no clear, but different theories dey. According to *Shehu Shagari*—wey be early member of NPN plus later de party ein sole presidential candidate—one pre-inaugural meeting decide say some coordinating committee members go take certain interim positions. *Chief Adisa Akinloye* nominate Aminu for de position of *publicity secretary*. But Aminu quickly suggest *Tanko Yakasai* instead—wey be former *NEPU* member—we Aminu believe say get better experience for de position. Some people wey dey NPN believe say Akinloye ein nomination of Aminu for dat role be reason why Aminu resign, because dem see am as “insult to ein national status”. But *Shagari* describe dis interpretation as “plausible but wrongly deduced”. Later, de *People’s Redemption Party (PRP)* talk say dat idea no correct at all—dem claim say de position fit give Aminu “good platform to build ein image”.

Anoda angle to dis matter come from Aminu ein political allies, especially people from *Kano* like *Lawan Dambazau*, *Lili Gabari*, *Dauda Dangalan*, plus *Sabo Bakin Zuwo*. According to dem, as dem hear say *Aminu* refuse to return to de *NPN*, *Aminu Dantata* rush go *Kano* den call big meeting for ein house wey gather influential people—businessmen, politicians, public servants, plus professionals from *Kano*. De purpose of de meeting be to see how dem fit convince Aminu make he return to NPN. Plenty of dem take turns talk plus beg am make he come back. Eventually, *Dr. Ibrahim Datti Ahmed*—wey be former President-General of de *Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria*—get chance to talk. According to *Dambazau*, he “blast Mallam Aminu say he be enemy of de North; enemy of traditional institutions; enemy of Islam; so dem no fit stay with am for NPN.” Dambazau talk say nobody defend Aminu or try stop Datti during de talk. After Datti finish, Aminu respond defend himself, but de meeting scatter, so dem postpone am to de next day.

Before de next meeting fit happen, Aminu fall sick plus he bedridden for days. During dis time, ein supporters from different corners of Nigeria—like *Balarabe Musa* (from *Kaduna*), *A.D. Yahya*, *Ananobi* (from *Port Harcourt*), *B.K. Benson* (from *Lagos*), plus *Dandatti Abdulkadir*, *Dahiru Liman*, plus *Dambazau* (all from *Kano*)—gather for *Kano* to sit down plus discuss with am on wetin be next move.

Aminu ein supporters organise one big gathering wey later get name *Taron Rami*—wey mean “meeting of de ditch”. People wey attend de gathering agree say Aminu don chop insult plus disrespect from *NPN* plus ein members—wey make dem decide say e better make he form ein own political party. Speakers wey talk for de event include *Dambazau*, *Usman Nagado*, plus *Abubakar Rimi*. Even though Aminu dey sick plus lie down, he send delegates all over de country to talk to ein supporters plus allies about wetin go be de next step. After dem get good response, Aminu form committee wey go lay foundation for de party. *People’s Redemption Party (PRP)* get inaugurated for *Kaduna* on 21 October 1978. Dis new party attract radical trade unionists, artisans, peasant folks, progressive lecturers, journalists, authors, plus former *NEPU* members. Some early prominent members of de party be influential people across de country like *Sam Ikoku*, *Abubakar Rimi*, *Chinua Achebe*, *Wole Soyinka*, *Yusufu Bala Usman*, *Umaru Musa Yar’Adua*, *Sule Lamido*, *Ghali Umar Na’Abba*, *Sabo Bakin Zuwo*, *Michael Imoudu*, plus *Edward Ikem Okeke*. De launch for October reportedly draw one “unbelievable number of people from all walks of life.”

#### 1979 Nigerian election
Main article: 1979 Nigerian presidential election

Elections happen between 7 July and 11 August 1979. Only five political parties get chance to contest—apart from *NPN* and *PRP*, de other three be *Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN)* wey *Awolowo* lead, *Nigerian People’s Party (NPP)* wey *Azikiwe* lead, plus *Great Nigeria People’s Party (GNPP)* wey *Waziri Ibrahim*—former *NPC* politician—lead. Dis election be de first one in 15 years, plus e be de first time wey *women* fit vote for *Northern Nigeria*.

Aminu get selected as *PRP* ein presidential candidate, but *FEDECO* refuse give am clearance to contest because of some *tax irregularities*. Dem require say make he submit “more convincing evidence”. Aminu deny any tax liability other than de flat-rate tax wey government impose on all Nigerians, no matter dem income. Later, court release declaration wey support Aminu ein claim say he no miss any tax payment, so he eventually get clearance.

E begin clear say *NPN* dey “on its way to power” as de elections dey move forward. After de party enjoy widespread success for *National Assembly* election, de other parties begin propose plus form alliances. On July 28, three out of de five parties—namely *UPN*, *NPP*, plus *GNPP*—meet for *Lagos* to form alliance against *NPN*. Dem invite *PRP* to join dis alliance, but PRP no respond. *Shehu Shagari*, wey be NPN ein presidential candidate, claim for ein autobiography say he propose similar arrangement to PRP while *Aminu* still dey try get clearance from *FEDECO*. He try convince Aminu make he withdraw from presidential race, say “since we both knew his chances to be bleak”. In return, PRP fit focus more on other elections plus “participate in an NPN federal government”. According to Shagari, Aminu agree but give two conditions: he go first consult ein party members plus get approval, plus he go challenge FEDECO’s decision for court to “defend his good name”. Aminu get cleared on 1 August 1979—just few hours before de deadline for presidential nominations. He fly from *Kano* go *Lagos* dat same day go file ein nomination papers with FEDECO. Dis move make Shagari conclude say PRP no endorse de agreement.

De presidential election wey happen on 11 August show say Aminu win only for ein home state *Kano*, where he gather 76% of de votes. Across de whole country, he get 1,732,113 votes—wey amount to 10% of total votes cast. De *PRP* frame de election as class struggle for *Kano*, plus dem run strong propaganda campaign to push dis message—wey help de party succeed big time for de state. PRP also win two gubernatorial seats: *Abubakar Rimi* for *Kano* (wey get 79% of de votes) plus *Balarabe Musa* for *Kaduna* (wey get 45%). According to *Shehu Shagari*, Aminu be sharp campaigner wey “genuinely cared about people plus fit empathize with dem well” but he no get strong success nationwide because “ein PRP no get de wide organisational base plus resources wey fit support one strong campaign across Nigeria.”

On 16 August, *FEDECO* announce de result of de presidential election—Shagari get declared as winner plus he gather 5,688,857 votes across Nigeria.

##### Reactions
De *FEDECO* announcement cause plenty controversy—*Azikiwe*, wey represent de four political parties wey no win, reject am “in its entirety and without any reservation de declaration of Alhaji Shehu Shagari as president-elect”. *Awolowo* appeal to de *Supreme Court*, but dem dismiss de appeal.

After dem declare *Shagari* as president-elect, de alliance between de opposing parties—wey now include *PRP*—strong pass before. Dis force de ruling *NPN* to begin look for ein own alliance. Dem approach de other four parties for talks, plus according to *Shagari*, na *PRP* be de first wey accept. But finally, na *Azikiwe* ein *NPP* wey enter alliance with de ruling party. De terms of de alliance—wey dem call 'accord'—finalise by representatives from both parties on August 22, two days after *Azikiwe* ein speech wey reject de election result. Dem start de meetings for August 20—same day wey *Azikiwe* talk. According to historian *Oyeleye Oyediran*, one of de agreements wey dem make during de meetings concern *Aminu*, say “special arrangements were to be made for Alhaji Aminu Kano, leader of de PRP, were his party to join de alliance.”

Over one year into *Shagari* ein government, de *NPN-NPP* accord begin break down—even though *NPN* give important leadership positions to *NPP* members. De accord formally end on 6 July 1981 after both parties agree say make e finish.

#### De PRP split
Some months after de *Second Republic* start, nine governors from *UPN*, *GNPP* plus *PRP* begin hold monthly meetings where dem dey discuss plus express dem grievances against *Shagari* ein government. Dis nine governors dey seen as main political opposition against de ruling party. Dis cause tension inside *PRP* as de party ein most influential leaders—like President *Aminu* plus National Secretary *S.G. Ikoku*—dey support cooperation plus *NPN*, while some radical members—like de two governors *Abubakar Rimi* plus *Balarabe Musa*, wey be part of de nine governors—denounce *NPN* plus oppose any kind of cooperation. 

From here, two factions develop inside de party. De ‘radical’ group be people wey “get deep commitment to radical change plus socialist principles.” Dem believe for “open confrontation of class forces.” Dis group include founding members of de party, most of de *House of Representatives* members, intellectual heads, plus de two governors. De oda faction represent more moderate plus ideologically mixed members. Dem follow de softer *“democratic humanism”* of *Aminu Kano*, plus dem believe say confrontation with *Shagari* ein government “suppose wait small, at least for now, for de sake of national unity plus cooperation between parties.” Dis group include top leftists like *Ikoku*, businessmen, professionals, plus other loyal *PRP* members wey dey support Aminu. De radical faction get nickname *Santsi*—wey mean ‘slippery’ for Hausa—after *Aminu* talk say dem dey on slippery slope. *Rimi* reply say some party leaders dey ‘stuck inside mud’, so dem begin call de pro-Aminu group *Taɓo*—wey mean ‘mud’ for Hausa.

During de spring of 1980, while *Aminu* dey abroad for medical treatment, de *PRP* leadership formally ban de two governors from attending de nine governors' meetings. When Aminu return, plus he no fit mediate between de two factions, he side plus de *Taɓo* faction, wey mean say he support de actions of de party establishment. But as de two governors still continue attend de meetings despite de directive, dem get expelled from de party. In response, de *Santsi* faction—wey claim say dem be de true *PRP*—organise one party convention inside December 1980, where dem expel *Aminu* plus *Ikoku*, and replace dem plus *Chief Michael Imodu* plus *Abubakar Rimi*, respectively. Even though plenty *PRP* lawmakers support de *Santsi* faction, *FEDECO* still recognise *Aminu* as de legitimate leader of de *PRP*.

#### 1981 Kano riot
On 7 July 1981, *Governor Rimi* send one letter go *Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero*, accuse am say he dey show deliberate disrespect to de *Kano State Government*. De letter demand response within 48 hours to explain why dem no suppose take disciplinary action. *West Africa magazine* describe de letter as “most disrespectful…suitable for admonishing a clerk, but…most unsuitable for addressing a [venerated] traditional and religious leader.” Other conservative religious plus intellectual figures condemn de letter, along with one spokesperson from de *Taɓo* faction. De ruling party *NPN* quickly take advantage of de situation, begin urge “people of goodwill” make dem “defend dem traditional institutions.”

Violence burst out on 10 July 1981 for *Kano*—wey lead to burning of plenty government buildings like *State Government Secretariat*, *Radio Kano*, plus *State House of Assembly*. Dem also target *Santsi faction* ein headquarters, plus de houses of key officials wey dey inside *Rimi* ein government. *Dr. Bala Mohammed*, wey be *Rimi* ein chief political adviser plus top intellectual inside de party, die inside de fire. *West Africa magazine* estimate de total damage from de riot to be ₦100 million for ein 20 July 1981 issue. Leaders from de *Santsi faction* accuse *NPN* plus *Aminu* say dem orchestrate de riots to “protect dem political power.”

#### Aftermath
De killing of *Dr. Bala Mohammed* make de division inside *PRP* worse. Earlier dat year, *Balarabe Musa*—wey be *PRP* Governor of *Kaduna*—get impeached by de *NPN*-dominated *State House of Assembly*. For 1982, he release one book titled *Struggle for Social and Economic Change*, where he accuse *Aminu* say na he mastermind de 1981 killings. *Musa* still talk say despite “all ein talk, stories, actions plus tricks, *Mallam Aminu Kano* fail to make our government plus majority of de party betray our General Programme.”

After dem expel several influential people from *PRP*, de *Santsi faction* begin scatter, due to issues like electoralism, survival crisis, plus strategic wahala. *Abubakar Rimi* join *Azikiwe* ein *NPP*, while *Balarabe Musa* try reconcile plus *Aminu*. *Musa* talk for one 2012 interview say *Aminu* ein sickness during dat time make am “largely unaware of his surroundings,” plus “some evil people around him” use dat chance exploit am. *Musa* also mention say *Aminu* plan organize one reconciliation meeting for ein house, but ein health no let am, wey lead to ein eventual death. 

As part of preparations wey dey go on insyd de 1983 presidential election, Aminu choose Bola Ogunbo as ein running mate. Dis na de first time wey woman ever hold dat position insyd de country. However, he pass away on 17 April 1983, several months before de election. 

## Death
After he suffer stroke plus cerebral malaria, Aminu Kano die on 17 April 1983 insyd ein house wey dey Kano. He get buried dat same day insyd ein residence. Since 2001, every year dem dey hold commemorative lecture for Mambayya House to mark de anniversary of ein death.

## Legacy
Aminu ein influence still dey echo insyd Nigerian politics long after he pass. Plenty of ein followers from ein PRP days later turn big figures insyd Nigerian politics, especially during de Fourth Republic (1999—present). Notable among dem be Sule Lamido, wey serve as de Governor of Jigawa from 2007 to 2015 plus, in honour of Aminu, build de Mallam Aminu Kano Triangle for Dutse; Ghali Umar Na'Abba, wey hold de position of Speaker for de Federal House of Representatives from 1999 to 2003; den most prominently, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, wey serve as Nigeria ein president from 2007 until he pass on 5 May 2010.

Perhaps de strongest sign of Aminu ein continuous influence insyd Nigerian politics fit show clearly for ein home state, Kano. Politicians wey dey seek support from de talakawa dey always lay claim say dem be ‘successors of Aminu Kano,’ plus former Governor of Kano State den presidential aspirant Rabiu Kwankwaso be notable example.

### Hausa cinema den plays
Sanso see: Hausa-language cinema

As small boy, Aminu dey compose plays wey he dey use act out “ein complaints, criticisms, den aspirations insyd dramatic form.” For inside dis plays, he dey always reserve de leading role give einself, den share de other parts among ein playmates. Later, as student for Kano Middle School, he become de first person wey formally write drama works insyd de Hausa-language. As he study for Kaduna College, he form de Dramatic Society, plus write several plays wey he:...he criticize how dem dey exploit de masses, plus challenge de system of emirates wey dey insyd northern Nigeria. For ein play, *Kai wane ne a kasuwar Kano da ba za a cuce ka ba?* (‘Whoever you might be, you go still chop cheating for Kano market’), he show how country people dey suffer under heartless merchants. For *Karya Fure take ba ta ‘ya’ya* (‘Lie dey bloom but e no dey bear fruit’), he address de issue of too much tax wey dem dey charge de Hausa rural population.Between de years 1939—1941, Aminu Kano write close to twenty short plays wey dem dey use for schools. Insyd dem plays, he mock some old-fashioned local customs plus criticize de activities of de Native Authority under de indirect colonial administration system. Insyd 1940, during de second annual general meeting of Kaduna Old Boys Association (wey dem now dey call Barewa Old Boys Association)—a gathering where alumni dey meet plus talk freely—Aminu, wey still be student by den, stage ein play *Kai wane ne a kasuwar Kano* for de KOBA attendees. Based on wetin Abubakar Imam talk, wey dey among de attendees, observers see de play as “politically inspired, fit cause more wahala than good for de region ein stability,” especially as global war dey go on. Dis reaction make de school authorities refuse to host any more meetings or do anything wey go link dem plus KOBA.

Aminu take inspiration from popular writers like Shakespeare, Rousseau, Voltaire, plus Tom Paine. He try adapt demma works for Hausa audience. Most times, he act as playwright, actor, plus director for de plays. Sometimes, he go turn prose into drama, other times he go use original material. Together plus ein colleagues, he build stages, invite audience to come watch demma show—especially during festival times like Sallah. Dem performances begin gain popularity, even emir plus district heads dey show. Aminu take dem plays as medium to give social commentary plus criticize society. One well-known play, *Kar Ka Bata Hajin Naka* (‘No Spoil Your Hajj’), wey dem later rename *Alhaji Ka Iya Kwanga* (‘Alhaji, You Know How to Dance de Conga’), warn Nigerians make dem no fall for de shiny attraction of Western lifestyle. He highlight say imitation no dey ever work, plus encourage change through education insyd dem own customs.

Even though Aminu send several of ein plays go *Gaskiya Ta Fi Kwabo*, de newspaper wey government dey run insyd Hausa-language, none of dem get acceptance. According to Abdalla Uba Adamu, “De traditional establishment too get strong grip to accept literary criticism, especially from one of dem.”Nevertheless, Aminu Kano ein plays influence Hausa cinema deeply. Several of dem get adapted into film. He influence Maitama Sule greatly—one of de early people wey embrace Hausa cinema. Sule mention say he enter Kaduna College after Aminu graduate, den recall say almost all de plays wey he act inside, Aminu be de writer. He add say he remember one time wey:...students rush go de railway station to welcome Aminu after dem hear say he dey travel from Kano to Bauchi, den go stop for small time insyd Kaduna. As de train delay for several hours, dem all go field go perform one of ein plays wey dem dey rehearse. When Aminu reach, he join de cast.Sule play major role for founding one of Northern Nigeria ein first film production companies—*Maitama Sule Drama Group*. Ein social plus political criticism still dey reflect for Nigerian films, especially those wey dem do insyd Hausa-language.

### Reformist ideas
Aminu Kano join de Northern Elements Progressive Union as ein political platform to challenge wetin he feel be de autocratic plus feudalistic actions of de Native Northern Government. He direct ein attack towards de ruling elite, including de emirs, wey majority of dem be Fulanis. De strength of ein platform come partly from ein background. Ein poppie serve as acting Alkali for Kano, plus he come from lineage of Islamic clerics. Aminu Kano bring Islamic ideas about equity insyd ein campaign trails during de First Republic. Plenty talakawas (commoners) for Kano stand behind ein message, den ein political stature grow from de support of Kano commoners plus migratory petty traders wey dey insyd de north. Plenty of de tradesmen later take charge of offices insyd NEPU. He try use politics to create egalitarian society insyd Northern Nigeria.

Anoda major idea wey he get before de First Republic start be to break up ethnically based parties. Dis idea get solid support from petty traders plus craftsmen wey dey live insyd towns along de rail track. De men den women be migratory people wey dey search trade opportunities plus no get plenty ethnic similarities plus demma host communities. He also propose fiscal system wey go tax de rich heavily for dat region, plus he stand out as one of de few top Nigerian politicians wey support equal rights for women.

Mallam Aminu Kano be highly respected politician for Northern Nigeria. He represent democratization, women ein empowerment, plus freedom of speech. One airport, one college, plus major street also bear ein name for Kano. De house wey he live, die, plus get buried insyd don turn Centre for Democratic Research plus Training under Bayero University Kano.

### Women ein empowerment
Aminu ein deep concern for ein mommie plus de societal constraints wey she face make am dedicate ein whole life to women ein empowerment. He choose not to marry multiple wives, den claim say de Qur'an allow Muslim to marry up to four wives only if dem fit treat all of dem equally—which he believe say no be something wey fit happen. He interpret dis one as Qur'an no dey support polygamy. As strong believer in education as de way wey women fit gain freedom, he sponsor one school for women wey dey gather insyd ein house from 1952 till when he pass away for 1983. De school dey offer courses for handicrafts, sewing, Hausa, plus basic English literacy. During ein two-year course for Institute of Education, all de term papers wey he write focus on “De Problem of Girls' Education insyd Kano.”

Throughout ein political career, Aminu always challenge how dem dey exclude women from public life plus formal political processes. He bring Islamic concepts like “freedom,” “jihad,” plus “justice” to support women empowerment, make am core issue insyd ein political party. Together plus ein cousin Isa Wali, he lead dis campaign during de 1950s plus 1960s—a rare position for dat era. During de 1970s plus 1980s, as democracy return to Nigeria, de People's Redemption Party (PRP) wey he dey lead emerge as de only political party for Nigeria wey address dis issue properly. Aminu come become closely linked to women ein rights advocacy more than any politician insyd de country. He argue say de Qur'an give Muslims right to “get direct say insyd de state ein affairs or choose representative on behalf of him or her.”

If he participate insyd de 1983 Presidential election, ein running mate go be Mrs. Bola Ogunbo, wey go mark de first time wey Nigerian woman get nomination for high national office. He support say women must dey more involved insyd public affairs. Through ein party PRP, he implement large-scale education programs for women plus appoint several women into public positions. For both de parties wey he lead—Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) from 1953 to 1966 plus de PRP from 1978 to 1983—women get encouragement make dem engage politically. However, even though dem parties create women ein wings plus address matters wey concern education plus voting rights, dem still suppress attempts wey female members make to tackle wider issues by demma own. De women ein wings, even though dem dey, no lead any big reform or revolutionary change for women.

### Islamiyya schools
During de 1950s, Aminu take inspiration from Islamic schools insyd Sudan, de writings of Abdullahi dan Fodio, plus some reformist movements wey dey Nigeria, den start de first Islamiyya schools. Ein goal be to reform plus modernise Islamic education for Kano. To get support, Aminu present de program to influential mallamai wey dey Kano, like Sheikh Na’ibi Suleiman Wali plus Inuwa Wada. De first school establish for Sudawa ward wey dey de city, then e gain popularity fast. E start with 30 students plus soon grow reach 60. Parents, especially those wey get small girls, prefer dis schools because dem focus on Islamic education while also add aspects of Western education, which be better option than not going school at all.

One education officer inspect de schools plus get impressed with de program, wey lead to ein inclusion insyd de formal school system. Within one year, dem open ten more Islamiyya schools for big cities across Northern Nigeria, including Kano, Kaduna, den Jos. By 1958, about 60 of such schools dey. Because majority of de support for these schools come from NEPU members, dem become politicised den sometimes get targeted—even violently. However, de popularity of de schools still strong, especially among female students.

After Nigeria gain independence for 1960, de Northern Government increase support for de Islamiyya schools. By de 1970s, primary school students “insyd addition to demma primary studies, attend Islamiyya school for several hours each day.” Today, most children wey dey Northern Nigeria dey attend Islamiyya schools plus traditional primary education together. These schools receive backing from de Nigerian government plus international organisations like USAID, as part of de agenda to push goals like girls' education.

## Personal life

### Family
Aminu ein first wife, Umma, be woman wey divorce from anoda marriage. Ein family be ‘royalty of sorts’ plus dem no agree make she marry Aminu because of ein ‘open anti-royalty stance.’ De marriage happen for Kano insyd 1939; but dem end am after Aminu go Kaduna College. Umma wey no gree for de dissolution run go Kaduna plus marry Aminu again. Demma family convince de local Alkali to dissolve de marriage second time after de couple return to Kano for holidays. Shortly after de one-year relationship end, Umma run go Ghana alone.

Aminu ein second wife be Hasia, wey come from royal family insyd Bauchi. Ein grandmother meet Aminu ein poppie on ein behalf, den he accept de proposal. Aminu hear about dis one as he dey finish ein studies for Kaduna College den return to Kano shortly after. After dat, he plus Hasia move go Bauchi for ein teaching assignment. At de time wey dem marry, Hasia be young plus no get formal education. Aminu take am upon einself to teach her de Qur’an, basic English literacy (reading, writing, den arithmetic), plus personal hygiene. She also share de knowledge by tutoring other women wey dey around her. During dem marriage, Hasia suffer from spleen infection wey make am hard for her to born children. For 1948, she get belle but later miscarriage. When Aminu stop teaching for 1950 plus enter politics, dem move go Kano. Ein political work make am no get plenty time for Hasia, wey come feel lonely. She stay insyd Aminu ein family compound for Sudawa but later move go ein mommie ein house after she get misunderstanding plus Aminu ein stepmommie. She refuse to come back den de marriage end. Aminu arrange make Hasia work for maternity hospital, position wey she hold till at least early 1970s. Even though de marriage end, Aminu plus Hasia still get good relationship. She attend ein wedding insyd 1969, plus one year later, he sponsor her pilgrimage go Mecca.

### Personality
Chinua Achebe, de influential Nigerian novelist plus PRP colleague of Aminu, describe am as “a saint plus revolutionary.” He further talk say:...if Aminu Kano discover say he don join de oppressors, he go quickly plus openly resign from ein position plus begin fight against himself!British journalist plus historian Basil Davidson, wey Aminu call ein friend, describe Aminu as “de Teacher, de Rebel, de Crusader-Politician, plus de Statesman-Parliamentarian.” As add-on to Davidson ein description, Aminu describe himself during ein speech for Bayero University Convocation Ceremony insyd 1982 as “a democratic humanist wey commit to lifting humanity plus protecting de dignity of women.” Elspeth Huxley, British writer wey meet Aminu insyd early 1950s, for ein 1954 book *Four Guineas: A Journey Through West Africa*, describe Aminu as “Cassius-type man, slim plus fiery, fluent insyd English, ein heart be scorpion plus ein tongue be whip.” She further describe am as “a demagogue—sharp-mouthed, fanatical.”

Aminu be well known for ein simple lifestyle. Even though he hold ministerial position under Gowon, he mainly maintain einself through ein “small farm holding” plus occasional gifts wey dey come from ein friends.

Aminu ein deep knowledge about Islam earn am de title Mallam (title wey dem dey give learned men for Northern Nigeria). He be expert for Islamic jurisprudence plus tafsir, plus he dey deliver widely popular lectures about dis topics, especially for Kano. Ein interpretations of de Qur'an mainly focus on Islamic principles of justice, de importance of education wey Islam dey talk about, plus he dey advocate for tolerance among de ‘people of de book’—wey include Muslims, Christians, plus Jews.

## Political quotes

# Say de shocking condition wey social order dey take exist insyd Northern Nigeria right now, no be because of anything except de Family Compact rule wey de so-called Native Administrations dey use for ein current autocratic form.
# Say because of dis wicked den vicious style of Administration wey de Family Compact rulers dey operate, our Society now get one kind antagonism of interests wey dey show insyd one class struggle — between demma Native Administration members wey dey inside de bad circle on one side, plus de ordinary "talakawa" on anoda side.
# Say dis antagonism fit clear commot only if we fit free de "talakawa" from de control of dem conduits, through reform of de current autocratic political Institutions to turn dem into Democratic Institutions, then place de democratic control for de hands of de "Talakawa" wey be de only people wey dem institutions dey exist for.
# All parties na just expression of class interests, den as de interest of de talakawa (commoners) no dey gree at all plus de interest of every part of de master class, any party wey dey look for freedom of de talakawa go naturally be against de party of de oppressors.


## References



## Read further

* 
* 
* 
* 
* 
* 
* 

## External links

* Launching of PRP in October 1978 in Ahmadu Bello Stadium. Reuters
* Tour of Mambayya house and the Mallam Aminu Kano Living History Museum
* 1979 interview by NTA in Jos