Victor Ezeja
The Kano State Government has accused the Federal Government of orchestrating the takeover of Emir palace on Friday by security operatives, restricting the movement of the 16th Emir, Muhammadu Sanusi II. The barricade created tension and fear in the ancient city.
Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, who appeared on a local radio programme on Friday, expressed surprise at the police sealing off the palace entrance.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“We were really surprised to wake up to this development, with the police sealing off the entrance to the palace of Kano Emir, Muhammadu Sanusi II,” Bichi stated.
He insisted that Kano has been peaceful, adding that it is only few people who are “powerful” and have backing from Abuja that are plotting to destabilise the state.
Bichi reaffirmed the state’s commitment to maintaining peace, adding that nobody will be allowed to cause chaos and destabilise the state.
The security roadblock, according to palace sources, was likely connected to the Emir’s plan to escort Munir Sanusi, the newly appointed Wamban Kano and District Head of Bichi, to his formal district position. According to other sources, it might have something to do with the Emir’s planned meeting with economists to discuss the proposed tax reform bills.
READ ALSO: Kano Emirate Tussle: Reckless Pointers Of Political Suicide
Despite the blockade, Emir Sanusi led the Friday congregational prayer at the Kano Central Mosque, located outside the palace.
During the prayer, Sanusi called for calm, urging the people to reject all forms of violence. According to him, the enemies of the state who want to see it consumed by violence are setting traps and warned the people to avoid falling into such.
“I warned you against falling into the traps of Kano’s enemies, who want to see Kano in flames. They always seek to incite killings, destruction of public properties, and the maiming of innocent lives,” Sanusi stated.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
