Zainab Bayero, the daughter of the late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, has alleged that she and her family are stranded in Lagos, living without shelter or financial stability. In an emotional video shared on social media, Zainab painted a grim picture of her family’s struggles since the passing of her father in June 2014.
The late Emir Ado Bayero, a revered monarch who ruled Kano for over five decades, passed away on June 6, 2014. However, Zainab claims his death left her family in financial distress. “This is me, daughter of the Emir of Kano, on the streets of Lagos, unsafe and stranded. No one cares if I live or die,” Zainab said in the video, her voice quivering with emotion.
Zainab revealed that she, her elderly mother, and her younger brother have been grappling with basic survival. She lamented the lack of a stable home or education, which she attributed to the family’s struggles after the Emir’s death. “My father left me with nothing — no education, no home. I’ve tried to survive, but I can’t go on anymore. I had so many dreams, but they’ve turned me into an urchin,” she said.
The video also highlighted the weight of responsibility Zainab carries. “The burden is too much. My mum and my younger brother depend on me, but I have no means to provide for them. That is why I ran away,” she added.
Zainab’s plea for help extended to influential figures she claims have ignored her appeals, including the President, the Governor of Kano State, and former Emir Sanusi. “I’ve pleaded to be cared for as a young woman who doesn’t want to die. But it’s obvious no one cares if I live or die,” she said, adding that she was considering ending her ordeal in despair.
This is not Zainab’s first public appeal. Earlier this year, she made headlines after disclosing her family’s dire condition. Following media coverage in June, the Kano State Government reportedly intervened to pay rent for her family’s Lagos apartment after they faced eviction. However, weeks later, Zainab returned to the media, seeking further assistance.
The situation became contentious when allegations surfaced that Zainab had mismanaged the financial aid provided by the Kano State Government, a claim she has vehemently denied. “I am only trying to survive, but the burden is overwhelming,” she stated.
Her plea has reignited discussions about the welfare of royal families in Nigeria and the need for sustainable support systems for individuals in similar circumstances.
By Saifullahi Muhammad
