Again, Late Ado Bayero’s Daughter Cries Out for Help

Princess Zainab J. Ado Bayero, the daughter of the late Emir of Kano, HRH Alhaji Ado Bayero, has once again raised her voice in distress over a continuing family crisis that has been well-publicized in recent times. The filmmaker and feminist, who has been outspoken about her personal struggles, recently made alarming claims that her family was held hostage in a Lagos hotel.

In a conversation with Vanguard, Princess Zainab revealed that on December 8, 2024, her brother Ahmed Tijjani Ado Bayero and their mother were reportedly trapped in a hotel due to a financial dispute. The princess, who is known for her advocacy for women’s rights, shared her deep frustration, expressing how she feels ignored and abandoned by the country.

“As a woman and a feminist, I am shocked that I have been ignored by my own country,” Zainab said. “We accuse countries like South Africa of xenophobia, but what about the tribalism, hate, and bigotry in our own land? For a day, we were held hostage because of a hotel debt, simply because we have no home.”

Zainab, who identifies as a vocal writer and women’s rights activist, also reflected on the pain of her brother’s depression and the unfair treatment she believes her family is receiving. She drew parallels to the oppression of women in other parts of the world, including Afghanistan, expressing how her own activism is seen as a form of rebellion due to her background.

“I’ve committed treason simply by speaking up as a Muslim from the Kano Emirate. I’m being judged for being half southern and half northern, and for challenging the patriarchal norms of society,” she continued. “Why is it okay for my family to be tortured and denied basic rights? Do we need to die because my father’s sons think we don’t deserve to exist?”

Zainab has now made a direct appeal to Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to intervene in her family’s plight. She called for a recognition of their rights as citizens and demanded that the authorities ensure their protection and safety.

“It is your duty, Mr. President, to protect the rights of every Nigerian citizen, including me, my mom, and my brother. We deserve to live without fear,” Zainab asserted.

In addition to appealing to President Tinubu, Princess Zainab also reached out to the Governor of Kano State, who she described as a family member, to use his power and authority to resolve their situation. She expressed hope that the governor would be moved by the situation and meet with them directly to understand the severity of their distress.

“I need to believe that the Governor of Kano State, as a family member and the father of the people, will end this pain,” she said. “I believe he should allow us the opportunity to meet with him and explain our predicament one-on-one.”