Kano kicks as security agencies mount barricade, restrict Emir Sanusi’s movement

The Kano State government, on Friday, issued a stern warning against interfering in the traditional and political affairs of the state.

The warning follows heavy deployment of armed security men and armoured tanks mounted at the entrance of Kofar Kudu palace of the Emir of Kano on Friday morning.

Similar deployment was witnessed at the palace of the Emir of Bichi, in Bichi Local Council of the state, a development that triggered tension and fear in the ancient city.

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, who was slated along with the entire emirate council to install the new Emir of Bichi, Munir Sanusi, was restricted by the security deployment .

Bichi has been another hotbed in the emirship battle after the sack of Nasiru Ado Bayero from the district. Nasiru, alongside his elder brother and the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, were removed as emirs by the state government.

In a statement, Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, condemned the interference, asserting that the state government would not tolerate any intrusion into the kingdom’s affairs.

Bichi expressed surprise at the presence of security forces at the Emir’s house, stressing that there was no indication of violence that would warrant such a response.

“The actions of the security forces are unfounded,” Bichi stated, “and we will not accept the interference in the peaceful matters of our kingdom.”

He further claimed that certain individuals in Abuja were supporting those attempting to disrupt the peace in Kano, stressing that the state government remains resolute in its stand.

Efforts to speak with the Police on the development were not successful as the spokesman of the Kano State Command, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, did not respond to calls and a text message sent to his mobile phone.