Tension In Kano As Police Allegedly Barricade Emir Sanusi’s Palace, Restrict Movement

Tensions are rising in Kano as police allegedly blocked the palace of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, preventing him from attending a royal event in Bichi Local Government Area.

It was gathered that the event was meant to mark the presentation of a staff of office to the new District Head of Bichi.

However, sources within the Kano Emirate claim that armed security personnel, including armored vehicles, surrounded the palace and restricted movement in and out of the area.

A palace insider disclosed that the Emir, who was preparing to leave for the event, has been trying to understand the situation, spending much of the time on phone calls.

“The Emir has been on the phone trying to understand what is happening. He was prepared to leave for the ceremony when the security operatives arrived and ordered him to remain indoors,” the source said.

Attempts by Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf to mediate reportedly hit a roadblock, as his representatives were allegedly denied access to the Emir’s palace.

“His Excellency sent representatives to meet with the Emir and mediate, but even they were not allowed past the barricade,” said a source close to the state government.

Similarly, the event venue in Bichi was reportedly sealed off by security officers, leaving guests and organizers unable to proceed with the ceremony.

When contacted, Kano State Police Public Relations Officer SP Abdullahi Haruna declined to comment on the matter, stating, “I cannot comment on the matter at this time.”

The development has fueled speculation about potential political motives behind the police action, though no official statements have been released by the state government or the Emirate Council.

This comes months after police took over the security of the Emir of Kano’s palace due to the rivalry between Aminu Ado-Bayero and Lamido Sanusi, who are both vying for the emirate’s leadership.