Tensions flared in Kano as security operatives, including armed police and Department of State Services (DSS) agents, blocked entrances to the palaces of the Kano Emir and Bichi Emir.
These incidents have deepened confusion and unrest in the state, which has been grappling with an ongoing emirship crisis.
Emir’s Palace Blocked Amid Federal Government Accusations
The Kano Emir’s palace was sealed off on Friday while Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II was presiding over court proceedings in the outer palace. Reports indicate that the Emir was scheduled to address economists on tax reform controversies and accompany his newly appointed district head, Munir Sanusi, to Bichi. Despite the blockade, the Emir later led Friday prayers at the Kano Central Mosque outside the palace.
Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, Secretary to the State Government, reacted strongly, accusing the Federal Government of orchestrating the blockade. Speaking on a local radio station, he said, “Kano is peaceful, but a few people with backing from Abuja want to destabilize it.” He reaffirmed the Emirate’s resolve to proceed with its plans peacefully.
Security Forces Take Over Bichi Palace
In a related development, police blocked access to Bichi Emir’s palace ahead of the arrival of the newly appointed district head, Munir Sanusi. Village and ward heads who gathered to welcome the district head were turned away by security forces.
The chairman of the Bichi local government council, Alhaji Hamza Mai Fata, urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding. A planned gathering at the palace was postponed, according to a statement by the local government’s information officer, Tasiu Jibo Dawanau, as the area remained calm despite the heavy security presence.
Gunshots and Thugs Prevented From Entering Palace
Unconfirmed reports suggest that gunshots were fired as police blocked thugs from entering the Kano Emir’s palace. This fueled speculations that the confusion was tied to the Emir’s planned trip to Bichi, marking the first official activity of his chief of staff, Munnir Sanusi, as district head following the dissolution of the emirate system.
The crisis has reignited debates over the emirship tussle, with Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II remaining a central figure in the controversies that have enveloped Kano since his reinstatement in May.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on the state to see how the government and traditional institutions will resolve the escalating tensions.
