Kano State is on edge as security forces have allegedly barricaded the palace of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, preventing him from attending a scheduled royal ceremony in Bichi Local Government Area.
Incident Overview
- Target Event: The Emir was set to attend the presentation of a staff of office to a new District Head of Bichi.
- Security Presence: Heavily armed police officers, including armored personnel carriers (APCs), restricted all movements in and out of the palace.
- Emir’s Response: Sources report that Emir Sanusi has been trying to understand the situation via phone while remaining confined to the palace.
State Government Mediation Efforts
Attempts by Governor Abba Yusuf to mediate were also obstructed:
- Governor’s Delegation Blocked: Representatives sent by the governor to resolve the issue were reportedly denied entry into the palace.
- Event Venue Cordoned Off: Security personnel also restricted access to the Bichi event venue, leaving attendees and organizers stranded.
Silence from Authorities
- Kano State Police: When contacted, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna, declined to comment on the matter.
- Official Statements: Neither the state government nor the Emirate Council has released any statement, fueling public speculation about potential political motives behind the incident.
Speculations and Reactions
The blockade has sparked widespread rumors of political undertones, as tensions between traditional rulers and political leaders in Kano have been prominent in recent years.
Observers are calling for clarity and urging authorities to address the situation to avoid further escalate.
