Tension is rising in the ancient city of Kano as police have barricaded the palace of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II. This restriction has prevented him from attending a royal ceremony in the Bichi Local Government Area.
The event was set to include the presentation of a staff of office to the new District Head of Bichi.
According to a source within the Kano Emirate, heavily armed security personnel, including armored personnel carriers (APCs), have blocked the entrance to the Emir’s palace, restricting all movement.
“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,” an anonymous source within the palace revealed.
Efforts by the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, to intervene also faced hurdles, as his delegation was reportedly denied entry into the 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.
Meanwhile, the venue of the Bichi event was also cordoned off by security personnel, leaving attendees and organisers stranded.
When reached for comment, Kano State Police Public Relations Officer SP Abdullahi Haruna declined to provide any statement, saying, “I cannot comment on the matter at this time.”
The incident has sparked widespread speculation regarding the reasons behind the action, with some suggesting political undertones.
However, neither the state government nor the Emirate Council has issued an official statement.
