Tensions escalated in Kano yesterday as armed security operatives, including police and Department of State Services (DSS) personnel, barricaded the Kofar Kudu Palace of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II. Similar actions were reported in Bichi, about 50 kilometers from Kano, where the Emir was scheduled to install the district head. The blockade, which sparked widespread concern, appeared to be an effort to prevent the Emir from traveling to Bichi to present the staff of office to Alhaji Mannir Sanusi, the new district head of Bichi.
The Federal Government has been accused of orchestrating the blockade. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, Secretary to the Kano State Government, claimed the security personnel acted on orders “from above” to disrupt the ceremony. He described the situation as surprising, given Kano’s relative peace. “The emir has appointed the district head, and it stands. Whenever he is ready to go there, we are going with him,” Bichi stated, reiterating the government’s commitment to stability.
Despite the heavy security presence, Emir Sanusi maintained a calm demeanor, choosing to appear in public and deliver his Friday Juma’at sermon at the mosque within the palace. Riding on horseback to the mosque, he cautioned residents against violence and urged them to remain patient. “Islam has counseled us to be patient at any given time—whether in a difficult situation, at peace, or under attack. With patience, we become great, but refusing patience brings uncertainty and difficulties,” he said.
The Emir condemned attempts to destabilize Kano, warning against the “enemies of Kano” who seek to incite violence and destruction. Stressing peaceful coexistence, he reminded residents that violence harms everyone in the end. “Those who support us must shun violence, no matter the provocation,” he concluded.
The Kano State Government expressed “profound dismay” over the blockade, describing it as disruptive and disrespectful to the state’s traditional institutions. Information Commissioner Halilu Baba Dantiye condemned the incident, which he said caused unnecessary distress and raised tensions in Kano. He assured residents that the government was investigating the matter and engaging with relevant authorities for a swift resolution.
The tensions come amid an ongoing legal and political struggle over Kano’s traditional leadership. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, in May 2024, dissolved the state’s five emirates created by his predecessor, Abdullahi Ganduje, reverting to a single emirate with Sanusi as the sole first-class Emir. The dissolution led to the dethronement of emirs, including Aminu Ado Bayero, who has since challenged his removal in court. These cases are pending in various courts, including the Federal High Court and the Appeal Court.
This crisis highlights the fragile relationship between political and traditional authorities in Nigeria. While Emir Sanusi’s public calls for peace demonstrate a commitment to stability, the blockade underscores deep-rooted tensions that could destabilize the state. With accusations of federal interference and unresolved legal disputes, the balance between Kano’s traditional institutions and political governance remains precarious. The coming days will determine whether dialogue and patience can avert further escalation.
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