The tussle over the Kano Emirate took a new twist as the 15th Emir of Kano, HRH Aminu Ado Bayero, defended his supporters’ actions during the clash at the Kofar Kudu Palace, claiming they acted in self-defence.
The violent confrontation occurred on Sunday when supporters of Emir Bayero and the reinstated 16th Emir, HRH Muhammadu Sanusi II, clashed at Sanusi’s palace.
The Kano State Government described the incident as unfortunate, noting that several innocent citizens sustained injuries.
In a statement issued by Emir Sanusi’s media team and signed by Sadam Yakasai, it was claimed that Emir Bayero’s supporters forcefully broke into the palace while Sanusi was away, attacked guards, damaged police vehicles, and chose a confrontational route instead of the regular one.
Responding to the allegations, Emir Bayero’s media aide, Khalid Uba, noted that their entourage was unarmed and only defended themselves after being attacked.
He explained that while returning from a condolence visit to Dantata House, they were ambushed by youths throwing stones along the Kofar Kudu road.
“They began throwing stones, but we managed to repel them and passed through safely without injuries,” he said.
Uba also confirmed that Emir Bayero’s loyalists were being evicted from the palace and reported receiving multiple complaints over the issue.
Ongoing Power Struggle
Tensions have remained high in Kano since Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir on May 23, 2024, four years after his dethronement by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
The reinstatement followed a repeal of the emirate law that split the Kano Emirate into five.
Emir Bayero, who was appointed after Sanusi’s removal, has refused to step down and continues to occupy the Nasarawa Palace under heavy security. The matter is currently being contested in court.
Victims of Palace Eviction Speak Out
Meanwhile, some individuals reportedly evicted from the palace have spoken out. A woman, who asked to remain anonymous, said she and her family were forced out by thugs loyal to Emir Sanusi.
According to her, the attackers removed roofing sheets, doors, and windows, giving them 24 hours to vacate. She added that residents perceived to support Emir Bayero were specifically targeted.
“It was the police who intervened and allowed us to stay until Tuesday. We’ve now packed our belongings and moved in with relatives,” she said, calling on the federal government for intervention.
Police Confirm Arrests
The Kano State Police Command confirmed the arrest of four suspects in connection with the attack on Emir Sanusi’s palace.
Police spokesperson SP Abdullahi Kiyawa said the suspects are in custody and under investigation. He added that Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Bakori has set up a panel to probe the incident thoroughly.
(Leadership)
