Police Barricade Emir Sanusi II’s Palace in Kano

According to sources within the Kano Emirate, Emir Sanusi was preparing to leave for the ceremony when the security blockade was imposed.

Kano, Nigeria – Tension escalated in Kano on Thursday as heavily armed police officers allegedly barricaded the palace of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, preventing him from attending a royal ceremony in Bichi Local Government Area.

The event, scheduled to feature the presentation of a staff of office to a new District Head in Bichi, was disrupted as security personnel, including armoured personnel carriers (APCs), reportedly blocked the palace entrance and restricted all movement.

According to sources within the Kano Emirate, Emir Sanusi was preparing to leave for the ceremony when the security blockade was imposed. “The Emir has been on the phone trying to understand what is happening. He was ready to leave when the security operatives arrived and ordered him to remain indoors,” an insider revealed.

Efforts by Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf to mediate were also thwarted. A delegation sent by the governor to resolve the situation was reportedly denied entry into the palace. “His Excellency sent representatives to meet with the Emir, but even they were not allowed past the barricade,” a source close to the government disclosed.

The tension extended to the ceremony venue in Bichi, which was also cordoned off by security personnel, leaving attendees and organisers stranded.

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

The reasons behind the police action remain unclear, fueling speculation about possible political motivations. However, neither the Kano State Government nor the Emirate Council has issued an official statement regarding the incident.