Hausawa Tsantsa Movement Asserts Constitutional Loyalty Over Traditional Authority

A political stir is unfolding in Northern Nigeria following a strong declaration by the Hausawa Tsantsa Movement, distancing itself from any alleged religious or ethnic political guidance connected to the Sultan of Sokoto.

In a statement titled “Mesa Ta Tashi,” signed by Hajiya Kaltume Alumbe Jitami, the group emphasized that Hausa citizens across Nigeria are bound only by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and not by directives from any traditional institution.

According to the movement, while the office of the Sultan; currently occupied by Sa’ad Abubakar, holds historical and spiritual importance, it does not possess constitutional authority in matters of governance or electoral decision-making.

The statement stressed that no ethnic group is legally compelled to follow political instructions that fall outside Nigeria’s democratic and constitutional framework.

Drawing a Line Between Culture and Politics

Referencing the historic Hausa city-states of Kano, Katsina, Zaria, and Daura, the group highlighted a heritage it says predates later centralized political systems. It argued that in present-day Nigeria, citizenship; not inherited institutions, define political identity and civic responsibility.

The movement described its position as a defence of equality before the law and national unity, insisting that cultural respect should not translate into political subordination.

Political observers note that the statement could signal evolving dynamics within Northern Nigeria, particularly as discussions around the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum. The move underscores ongoing debates about the appropriate role of traditional institutions in modern democratic governance.

Reaffirming its stance, the movement concluded that allegiance of Hausa men and women rests with the Federal Republic and its constitutional institutions.