Fresh insights have emerged regarding the sealing of the entrance gate to the palace of the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, on Friday.
While the Nigeria Police have yet to provide an official statement, a reliable source revealed that this action was taken to prevent a potential breakdown of law and order in Bichi town, where Emir Sanusi was scheduled to install a new district head.
According to a reliable source, an anonymous insider indicated that residents of Bichi had allegedly plotted to obstruct the installation ceremony. The intelligence prompted security forces to act swiftly, preventing the Emir from attending the event.
It was also suggested that this measure aimed to deter prominent personalities from travelling to Bichi for the installation.
Sunday Tribune learned that many residents opposed the planned appointment, questioning the rationale behind establishing a district head. Some expressed concerns that the installation was a demotion for their town.
Residents noted that when former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje’s five Emirate councils were dissolved by the current Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, he proceeded to appoint second-class emirs for three of those councils while excluding Bichi town.
Discontent grew among locals, who felt that their kingdom was downgraded to the authority of a mere district head, whereas other towns that were similarly affected now have ruling second-class emirs.
Some stakeholders confided to Sunday Tribune that the police intervention may prove fortuitous; the situation could have spiralled into a significant crisis, potentially affecting Bichi and surrounding areas.
It is noteworthy that by 7 a.m. on Friday, heavily armed police had secured the entrance to Emir Sanusi’s Kofar Kudu palace.
