Security operatives blocked Kano Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II from attending a royal event in Bichi, citing heightened tensions over his recent reinstatement. The incident underscores ongoing friction within Kano's traditional leadership, following Governor Yusuf’s decision to reverse Sanusi’s 2020 deposition by ex-Governor Ganduje, sparking power struggles and division in the Emirate.
Security operatives on Friday obstructed access to the Kano Emir’s Palace, preventing reinstated Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II from attending a royal ceremony in Bichi Local Government Area.
The event in question was a staff of office presentation to a newly appointed District Head, where Sanusi was expected to preside. Eyewitnesses reported a heavy security presence, including Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) stationed at the palace gates, barring the Emir from leaving.
Palace insiders revealed that Emir Sanusi II made several calls to understand the situation, but no clear explanation was provided. In a related move, a delegation sent by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the palace was also denied entry, escalating the standoff.
This development comes amid heightened tensions within Kano’s traditional leadership. Governor Yusuf recently reinstated Sanusi II as Emir of Kano, reversing his controversial removal in 2020 by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. Ganduje had replaced Sanusi with Aminu Ado Bayero during a significant restructuring of Kano’s Emirate system.
The reinstatement of Sanusi has reignited divisions within the Emirate, pitting his supporters against those loyal to Bayero. The leadership dispute has raised concerns about the stability of Kano’s traditional institution, with critics warning that the ongoing friction could undermine the Emirate’s cohesion.
The blocked access to the Bichi event and the palace highlights the deepening crisis and the political complexities surrounding Kano’s Emirate leadership. The situation remains tense, with observers calling for dialogue to resolve the escalating power struggle.
